The United Arab Emirates has begun expelling large numbers of Pakistani workers following Islamabad’s mediation efforts to end the conflict between the United States and Iran. The move has strained relations between the longtime partners, with reports indicating that thousands of Pakistani Shia workers have been detained and deported since mid-April. Interviews cited by The New York Times describe sudden arrests, detentions, and deportations without explanation, raising concerns about sectarian targeting.

Pakistan’s foreign ministry has denied any mass deportations, stating that only individuals involved in criminal activities were expelled. The UAE has not commented publicly. The expulsions follow Abu Dhabi’s withdrawal of a $3.5 billion loan to Pakistan, a significant blow to its foreign reserves. Saudi Arabia subsequently offered a $3 billion deposit to help stabilize Pakistan’s finances.

Analysts suggest the rift stems from Pakistan’s failure to strongly condemn Iran’s attacks on the UAE and its perceived tilt toward Tehran. The situation risks deepening Pakistan’s entanglement in Gulf rivalries between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.