US President Donald Trump has welcomed a new defence agreement between Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, describing it as a significant step toward stronger collective security in the Middle East.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said he was pleased that the three countries had signed what he referred to as the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement. He described the agreement as a “BIG, BOLD, IMPORTANT FIRST STEP” and said it reflected growing efforts by countries in the region to strengthen their ability to protect themselves.
The agreement was signed on August 7, at a time when tensions and violence involving Iran and the United States have spread across parts of the region, including attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels.
Under the agreement, an attack against one of the three countries would be treated as an attack against all three. Pakistan’s foreign ministry said the arrangement is designed to strengthen collective deterrence and deepen security cooperation among the participating nations.
The agreement also highlights a shared commitment to strengthening collective security while promoting peace, stability and security across the region and beyond.
Beyond defence cooperation, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan have also committed to supporting efforts aimed at resolving the conflict between Iran and the United States.
The pact comes as regional powers face increasing pressure to strengthen cooperation and develop collective approaches to security and conflict resolution. Its implementation and long-term impact could become an important factor in shaping the region’s evolving security landscape. — AFP
