Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan forge new alliance as Middle East order shifts – analysis

Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan have forged a new military alliance, signing the "Mecca Joint Defence Agreement" on August 7. This pact, which includes joint exercises and deepened defense industry cooperation, stipulates that an armed attack against any member would be considered an attack on all, similar to NATO's Article 5. The alliance, comprising three Sunni Muslim US allies, aims to enhance regional cooperation amid global uncertainty and concerns over Iranian missile fire.

"the three Sunni Muslim US allies, alarmed by a regional conflagration that has brought Iranian missile fire onto Gulf oil exporters, signed the 'Mecca Joint Defence Agreement' on August 7."

This development highlights a shift in the Middle East's regional order, with countries seeking to work more closely together. While the Abraham Accords represent one model for regional cooperation, this new security pact reflects different strategic priorities. The agreement also raises questions about Israel's role and potential missed opportunities, especially given Turkey's criticism of Israel and Saudi Arabia's past consideration for the Abraham Accords. The alliance is seen as a response to a new security environment following escalation with Iran, with Saudi Arabia providing financial resources and Turkey contributing a large military and sophisticated defense industry.