Saudi Crown Prince Announces Defense Pact, Warns of Energy Crisis

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the formation of the "Mecca Pact," a defense alliance with Turkey and Pakistan aimed at bolstering regional stability and averting conflict. He stated this during a royal address on behalf of King Salman bin Abdulaziz at the opening of the Shura Council's third year.

Bin Salman emphasized that the alliance seeks to enhance regional stability, shield it from the consequences of tension and conflict, and coordinate efforts. He also highlighted that attacks targeting Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states underscore the indivisible nature of Gulf security and stability, affirming Saudi Arabia's commitment to safeguarding them alongside other GCC nations.

The Crown Prince asserted that Saudi Arabia is exerting maximum effort to de-escalate tensions without compromising its security and will respond decisively to any threats. He also mentioned the establishment of a multinational maritime defense coalition to enhance maritime security and protect shared interests in international waterways, rejecting their exploitation for political or economic leverage.

Addressing the global energy situation, Bin Salman warned that the world is facing an energy crisis with "open possibilities." He also strongly condemned what he termed the "brutal aggressions" by Israeli occupation authorities against Palestinians in Gaza and their repeated violations at Al-Aqsa Mosque. He called on the international community and the UN Security Council to play their expected role in achieving a lasting political solution in Palestine.