Mecca Pact

Saudi Arabia faces unprecedented vulnerability amid Houthi attacks and crippling air blockades, prompting Turkey to step in with the Mecca Pact. Experts analyze the strategic impact on regional security, Israeli concerns, and mounting pressure on Washington.

Saudi Arabia is diversifying its military partnerships with European and Asian nations to reduce reliance on the US, though the new multi-layered defense network faces distinct limitations.

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey have signed a defense agreement signaling a reduction in dependence on the United States. The alliance is not aimed directly against Tehran but is intended to establish security independence under the quiet sponsorship of Beijing. The move creates an opening for Israel to deepen ties with the UAE, which is wary of the new power center. Commentary.

In an interview with "Asharq Al-Awsat", Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan detailed the joint defense agreement with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, presenting it as a move to bolster regional stability while criticizing Israeli policy.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan signed a joint defense agreement under which an attack on one of them would be considered an attack on all, but Egypt did not join. Conflicting reports present two versions of the reason.