From below of various flags on flagpoles located in green park in front of entrance to the UN headquarters in Geneva

In a major diplomatic breakthrough, India scored a significant victory at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as three key Muslim-majority countries — Indonesia, Egypt, and Bahrain — blocked a proposal put forward by Pakistan aimed at cornering India on the Kashmir issue and alleged anti-Muslim sentiments.

This development marks a turning point in India’s growing ties with the Islamic world and a strong message to Islamabad that its narrative is no longer gaining automatic support, even among traditional allies.

🧾 What Happened at the OIC?

At a recent meeting of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, Pakistan attempted to introduce a resolution criticizing India’s internal policies, particularly regarding Kashmir and alleged treatment of Muslims in the country.

However, to Pakistan’s surprise, Indonesia, Egypt, and Bahrain — all prominent members of the Islamic world — refused to endorse or support the proposal, effectively blocking it from moving forward.

This diplomatic stance prevented Pakistan from internationalizing the issue within the OIC, a platform it has often used in the past to criticize India.

🌍 Why This Is a Big Deal

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations, consisting of 57 member states, most of which are Muslim-majority countries.

For decades, Pakistan has enjoyed strong backing in the OIC due to its Islamic identity and close historical ties with countries like Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Using this influence, it often attempted to rally Islamic countries against India — especially on Kashmir.

However, this latest incident shows that India’s diplomacy is gaining momentum, and its efforts to build strong bilateral relations with key Muslim nations are bearing fruit.

🇮🇩 🇪🇬 🇧🇭 Why Did Indonesia, Egypt, and Bahrain Say No?

🔹 Indonesia:

As the world’s largest Muslim-majority democracy, Indonesia has maintained a balanced approach in its foreign policy. It has deepened its ties with India in trade, defense, and cultural exchange. Jakarta clearly recognizes the importance of strategic cooperation over ideological alignment.

🔹 Egypt:

Under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Egypt has become a key partner of India. The two nations have signed several strategic agreements, and Egypt has shown increasing interest in India’s growing global influence, including support at forums like the G20 and BRICS.

🔹 Bahrain:

Bahrain’s decision reflects its pragmatic foreign policy and growing economic and security ties with India. The presence of a large Indian diaspora in Bahrain further strengthens this relationship.

🇮🇳 India’s Smart Diplomacy Is Paying Off

India has taken a multi-pronged diplomatic approach toward the Islamic world:

  • High-level visits from Indian leaders to UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt.
  • Active participation in trade, technology, and cultural exchange programs.
  • Regular communication and engagement on issues like counter-terrorism and economic cooperation.

Notably, in recent years, countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have even awarded India’s top leaders with civilian honors, showing a deepening trust and mutual respect.

🇵🇰 Setback for Pakistan’s Foreign Policy

This development marks a serious diplomatic blow for Pakistan, whose efforts to isolate India using religious and ideological lines appear to be losing traction. While Pakistan continues to raise the Kashmir issue at various international forums, its influence within the OIC is visibly waning.

With growing economic challenges at home and decreasing leverage abroad, Pakistan may need to rethink its foreign policy strategy, especially regarding India.

🧠 Expert Reactions

Strategic analysts and foreign policy experts have hailed this moment as a clear signal that India’s global narrative is winning over old perceptions.

“India’s outreach to the Muslim world is not just symbolic. It’s rooted in strong economic ties and mutual respect. This OIC incident is proof of that,” said a former Indian diplomat.

📈 The Road Ahead

This episode strengthens India’s global image as a mature, secular democracy and sends a clear message to the international community: India is not isolated, even in the Muslim world.

As India continues to rise as a global power, its ability to forge strong partnerships across religion and ideology will be key to sustaining long-term influence on the world stage.