Turkey and Pakistan have agreed to rapidly deploy forces to Saudi Arabia as part of a new mutual defence alliance. The decision was made during a meeting in Riyadh between the two countries and Saudi Arabia. The trio aims to implement collective defence commitments and provide necessary military forces and capabilities to counter threats from Yemen's Houthis.
The Makkah Alliance for Defence, formed by Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, has appointed Pakistani commander Nauman Mahmood as its first Secretary-General for a three-year term. This move is part of the alliance's institutional development process. The appointment was approved during the meeting, which also discussed security developments and threats facing Saudi Arabia.
The Political and Defence Strategy Committee of the Makkah Defence Alliance held an emergency meeting to condemn attempted targeting of Makkah and Al-Madinah Holy Cities in Saudi Arabia. The committee also rejected any aggression or threat to Saudi Arabia's security and territorial integrity. Member states affirmed their commitment to collective defence and a unified stance against threats.
Pakistan and Turkey commended the vigilance and readiness of Saudi armed forces in countering threats and attacks. The committee reviewed outcomes of previous consultations and approved recommendations to enhance readiness, military integration, and collective capacity to confront threats. The member states emphasized that translating the Makkah Collective Defence Agreement into practical measures demonstrates their commitment to collective defence.
The security of each member state is considered an integral part of the collective security of the three nations. The member states aim to strengthen deterrence and underscore their unity and determination to defend their security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The agreement's provisions will guide their actions to counter threats from Yemen's Houthis.
The rapid deployment of troops by Turkey and Pakistan to Saudi Arabia is expected to enhance the Kingdom's military capabilities. The Makkah Defence Alliance embodies a steadfast commitment to collective defence and a unified stance in the face of threats. The alliance will proceed with practical implementation of collective defence obligations.
The situation in Yemen remains a concern, with pro-government forces besieging the city of Mocha but yet to recapture it. The conflict has led to a sharp escalation of fighting, causing concern for the UN chief. The deployment of forces by Turkey and Pakistan to Saudi Arabia aims to counter Houthi attacks and stabilize the region.
Key points
- Turkey and Pakistan will rapidly deploy troops to Saudi Arabia as part of a new mutual defence alliance.
- The Makkah Alliance for Defence has appointed Pakistani commander Nauman Mahmood as its first Secretary-General.
- The alliance aims to enhance readiness, military integration, and collective capacity to confront threats from Yemen's Houthis.
