Russia Sees Iran's Inclusion in Makkah Pact as Key to Regional Stability

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that incorporating Iran into a regional security framework for the Gulf would be a critical move toward stabilizing the region.

Lavrov pointed to the recent Makkah Joint Defence Pact, signed on August 7 among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye as a potential foundation for broader cooperation.

The agreement establishes collective defense and security cooperation among the three nations, with its newly formed Strategic Political and Defence Committee holding its first meeting in Istanbul on August 31.