Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan Sign Joint Defense Deal Amid Growing Iran Threat

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan are set to sign a joint defense agreement in Mecca on Friday, aiming to counter the growing threat from Iran. The pact comes as a response to regional turmoil, with Arab Gulf states facing attacks from Iran and its proxies.

The three nations have been negotiating this deal for nearly a year, with Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stating last January that Ankara favors a broader regional security platform to promote cooperation and stability.

Pakistan has sought to avoid becoming militarily entangled in the conflict, instead opting to try to mediate with Iran. However, its military and government have been working closely with Saudi Arabia and Turkey on this joint defense agreement.