Why Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey just signed a defense pact

Key Points:

• Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey signed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, committing to consider any armed attack against one as an attack against all, amid rising regional tensions and doubts about U.S. security guarantees.
• The agreement is not a NATO-like alliance but enhances Saudi Arabia's regional leadership and leverage against Iran, while reflecting Riyadh's shift from reliance on U.S. security guarantees toward diversified partnerships.
• For Pakistan, the pact increases its influence in the Middle East, aligns with its strategic interests, and may improve its standing with the U.S. by demonstrating commitment to regional deterrence against Iran.
• Turkey gains a stronger regional defense network, reinforcing its role in a multipolar Middle East and South Asia, enhancing deterrence against Israel, and expanding military and economic cooperation with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
• The agreement underscores a shared principle among the three nations opposing unilateral external interference in regional affairs and could lead to expanded collective defense and economic ties.