Israel Braces for New Regional Threat: Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan Defense Pact

Israel is growing increasingly concerned about the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan. The pact, which brings together three major regional powers, has raised alarms in Jerusalem as it may indicate a shift away from the traditional Middle Eastern axis. According to an Israeli official, the agreement reflects a broader regional shift with the Sunni axis getting stronger.

The senior Israeli official warned that Israel needs to build alternative alliances, particularly with Greece and Cyprus, India, and the United Arab Emirates. He emphasized that Israel must become 'very, very strong' and make other countries dependent on it. The official also expressed concerns about Turkey's involvement, citing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as a particular threat.

Despite claims that the agreement is aimed at countering Iran, the Israeli official was skeptical, stating that the true target may be Israel itself. Egypt, a key player in the region, has been mentioned as a potential next member of the alliance. The Mecca Joint Defense Agreement is seen as a significant development, bringing together major oil producer Saudi Arabia, nuclear-armed Pakistan, and Turkey with its rapidly expanding defense industry.