Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has emerged as a key diplomatic force in defusing the recent military escalation between India and Pakistan, becoming the first country to dispatch a special envoy to both nations amid rising regional tensions.

In a swift and coordinated effort guided by the Kingdom’s leadership, Saudi Arabia worked to contain the fallout from a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir in April, which triggered a wave of cross-border hostilities.

The Kingdom’s proactive diplomacy helped pave the way toward a ceasefire agreement announced on May 10.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan initiated early contact with his Indian and Pakistani counterparts in late April, urging both sides to exercise restraint and emphasizing the importance of resolving differences through political dialogue.

Building on this groundwork, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir was dispatched to New Delhi and Islamabad in early May — marking Saudi Arabia as the first nation to engage both capitals through direct visits during the crisis.

The Kingdom’s mediation efforts, described by regional analysts as “timely and decisive,” were widely welcomed by both sides.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar publicly acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s crucial role, with Dar praising the Kingdom for its “sincere and effective” contribution to restoring calm in South Asia.

While the ceasefire was ultimately declared through broader diplomatic coordination that included the United States, Saudi Arabia’s parallel engagement was instrumental in shaping the outcome.

Riyadh’s balanced ties with both India and Pakistan positioned it as a trusted intermediary — able to offer support without politicizing the process.

Observers noted that the Kingdom’s decision to send an envoy before any other nation underscored a growing confidence in Saudi foreign policy, and a commitment to playing a constructive role in global peace and security.

In a region often marked by mistrust, Saudi Arabia’s efforts served as a reminder of the Kingdom’s evolving diplomatic reach — grounded in neutrality, dialogue, and a strategic vision for regional stability.