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

Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed the 'Mecca Joint Defence Agreement' on August 7, 2026, establishing a collective defense pact similar to NATO's Article 5. The agreement includes joint exercises, defense industry cooperation, and collaboration in unmanned systems, AI, and electronic warfare. The deal reflects a shift in regional strategic thinking amid uncertainty in the US-led world order. The article analyzes implications for Israel and the Abraham Accords, noting concerns in Jerusalem about potential opposition, and quotes Jared Kushner on the Accords' vision.

Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a joint defence agreement in Mecca on August 7, 2026, establishing a collective security pact similar to NATO's Article 5. The 'Mecca Joint Defence Agreement' includes joint exercises, defence industry cooperation, and collaboration in unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and electronic warfare. The deal reflects a shift in regional strategic thinking as countries hedge against uncertainty in the US-led world order, accelerated by the Ukraine war, the October 7 war, and the Iran war. The article notes that while the Abraham Accords remain relevant, Israel could be missing opportunities, and that bellicose rhetoric in Jerusalem against Syria has caused concern in Ankara, Riyadh, and Washington. It also highlights that Saudi Arabia is showing it will find other partners if Israel does not accommodate Riyadh's demands regarding the Palestinians. The agreement does not necessarily represent a shift away from the US, but illustrates a desire for greater regional cooperation.