Daily Times

Sir: The 1980s proxy war in Afghanistan is now reflecting back on us. Pakistan was left high and dry by the ‘friends’ to clean the mess it was driven into. Unfortunately today we are undergoing almost the same situation of choosing between the two. Saudi Arabia declared war on Yemen and Iran’s all-out but tacit support for Yemen rebels is not hidden from the world. The Saudi King has urged Pakistan to join yet another proxy war. Jumping into others’ wars might again cost us dearly. Iran is a geographical reality in the neighbourhood and Saudi Arabia is our all-weather friend. But both are pursuing their own national interests. These big factors cannot be ignored.

While making a choice, we should also prioritise our national interests. The prime minister’s intention to resolve this tricky situation amicably is commendable and his decision to take the divided Muslim world on board is the only silver lining in this dark hour. In my view, there cannot be any other solution than negotiations. Let us strengthen the hands of the prime minister and show solidarity at this critical juncture. Our silence on the issue might be criminal negligence and could precipitate another human crisis.
ADVOCATE HASAN ZEB
Lahore