Pakistan makes strategic comeback, reclaims global spotlight: the Diplomat

WEB DESK: A leading US magazine, The Diplomat, has described 2025 as a year in which Pakistan returned to the global spotlight after many years, citing what it called a strategic comeback marked by renewed military confidence, clearer state policy and improved regional standing.

According to the magazine, Pakistan’s military leadership sent a strong and unambiguous message against extremism at the state level, with the army chief’s assertion that the authority to declare jihad rests solely with the state being described as a significant milestone. The Diplomat said this stance helped reinforce state writ and discipline, while strengthening Pakistan’s strategic credibility despite internal challenges.

The publication highlighted the May 2025 military clashes with India as a key moment that drew international attention. It said Pakistan’s response demonstrated professional competence, restored deterrence and clarified the regional military balance, even with limited resources. Pakistan’s performance, it added, became a subject of discussion among global defence experts.

The report also noted improvements in Pakistan’s external relations following these developments, including better ties with the United States, while India faced diplomatic pressure in Washington after the conflict. Defence agreements in the Middle East, particularly a major bilateral defence arrangement with Saudi Arabia, were termed strategic advances that enhanced Pakistan’s regional role. Demand for Pakistani defence equipment reportedly increased, while China expressed satisfaction with the performance of defence systems used during the conflict.

On regional issues, The Diplomat said Pakistan adopted clear and firm positions on Afghanistan and intensified pressure against the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), engaging countries such as Qatar, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia in mediation efforts to highlight cross-border security threats. It also described Pakistan as an important stakeholder in global efforts related to Gaza.

Despite economic challenges, the magazine noted progress on reforms, calling the privatisation of PIA after two decades a major breakthrough and a potential turning point. Overall, it said Pakistan benefited from the evolving global environment to regain confidence, pursue reforms and reassert its strategic relevance.

Web Desk