Going after Iran? Erdogan reveals secrets of the 'Mecca Alliance' and warns Israel

Turkish President Erdogan, in an interview with a Saudi newspaper, reveals the goals of the 'Mecca Alliance' with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, warns Israel, and sets a red line in Syria. He calls for an end to strikes in Lebanon and emphasizes the importance of regional stability.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan gave an interview to the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, addressing the tripartite defense agreement signed in Mecca between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan. He described relations with Saudi Arabia as strategic and clarified that the agreement aims to strengthen deterrence and regional stability, while rejecting the claim that it is a temporary response to the current escalation. Erdogan emphasized that the agreement, based on Article 51 of the UN Charter, is not directed against any country and is open to additional nations. He called for an end to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which he described as a lifeline for the global economy. Regarding Israel, Erdogan attacked its 'aggressive and expansionist' policies and called for an immediate halt to strikes in Lebanon, while supporting ceasefire efforts. He warned against turning Lebanon into a battleground for settling scores among foreign powers. On Syria, he stated that it is on the threshold of a new historic phase, pledged to respect its territorial integrity and assist in its reconstruction, but set a red line against any threat to Turkey's security, apparently referring to Kurdish forces. In conclusion, he called on regional countries to take their fate into their own hands.