Tripartite Defense Pact Signed Amid Regional Tensions
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a joint defense agreement in Mecca to strengthen collective deterrence against aggression. The pact includes a collective defense clause, stipulating that an attack on any of the three countries would be considered an attack on all.
The agreement was brokered amid regional turmoil, with Iran and its allies firing missiles onto Gulf oil exporters since the US and Israel's February 28 attack. The Saudi-led coalition has been targeted by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen and Shi'ite militias in Iraq.
Turkey brings significant military might to the table, while Pakistan contributes defense industries and Saudi Arabia provides technological spending. The pact does not include a nuclear component, as Pakistan's atomic deterrent is focused on its perceived threat from India.