How Saudi Arabia-Turkey-Pakistan defence pact acts as ‘insurance’ over US disengagement

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a new defence pact, with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stating the agreement functions similarly to NATO’s Article 5 mutual defence clause. The deal, finalized on Friday, includes provisions for collective security among the signatory nations. Turkish officials have indicated that Egypt may potentially join the alliance in the future.

Observers suggest the pact serves as a strategic hedge against perceived regional instability and concerns regarding the reliability of United States security guarantees. While some analysts interpret the alliance as a deterrent against the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, Turkish officials have explicitly stated that the accord is not directed at Iran.