UAE pressures Pakistan over Iran stance

The Financial Times reports that the UAE, in an attempt to pressure Pakistan to adopt a tougher stance against Iran in ongoing negotiations, unexpectedly demanded immediate repayment of a $3.5 billion loan. In response, Saudi Arabia has stepped in to help Islamabad by lending $3 billion, which will boost Pakistan's central bank reserves so it can pay back the UAE loan. This financial maneuvering highlights the regional power struggle over Pakistan's foreign policy alignment, particularly regarding its relationship with Iran.