Saudi-Iran rift: Fear of sectarian fallout prompted mediation, say officials

ISLAMABAD: Fear of sectarian polarisation and proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran in Pakistan compelled Islamabad to mount a diplomatic push to mediate between the two key Muslim countries, officials said on Sunday.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will leave for Saudi Arabia and Iran today (Monday) to try and defuse tensions between the two regional countries. Leading a high-powered delegation – including his foreign policy adviser Sartaj Aziz and army chief General Raheel Sharif, the premier will begin his crucial trip from Riyadh and then travel to Tehran on Tuesday.