Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan Sign Joint Defence Pact Amid Regional Tensions
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a joint defence agreement in Mecca, committing to collective deterrence against any act of aggression. The pact, known as the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, states that an armed attack against one of the three countries will be regarded as an attack against them all.
The agreement was signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. It promises to enhance 'all aspects of defence cooperation', including shared defensive capability development, military exercises, and personnel training.
Analysts believe the pact is a response to the ongoing war in the region, particularly the US and Israel's strikes against Iran. Saudi Arabia has been shaken by repeated attacks on its oil infrastructure and has moved to build layered security rather than relying solely on the US umbrella.
The three countries bring unique assets to the agreement: Saudi Arabia brings diplomatic weight and a significant defence industry; Turkey contributes NATO's second-largest military and a strong defence industry; and Pakistan offers a nuclear arsenal and combat experience.