Syria Considers Joining Military Pact with Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Syria is considering joining a military alliance with Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, which would require mutual defense assistance. This potential membership could lead to a regional crisis if Israel conducts strikes in Syria or uses its airspace for attacks elsewhere. The discussions follow earlier public mentions of the possibility and include broader diplomatic and economic cooperation agreements between Syria and Pakistan.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Syria is considering joining a military alliance with Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan.
- The alliance would require member states to assist each other if attacked.
- Syria's potential membership could cause a regional crisis with Israel.
- Syria could seek alliance support if Israel attacks its territory or airspace.
- Syria and Pakistan agreed to boost diplomatic and economic ties.
Syria is contemplating joining a military alliance with Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, which would obligate member states to mutual defense in case of an attack. The potential move was disclosed by A-Shibani, a Syrian official, during a conference organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies. He clarified that these are discussions about the possibility of joining, not a final decision or signed agreement.
Syria's potential membership could trigger a regional crisis, particularly if Israel were to conduct airstrikes within Syria or if Israeli fighter jets passed through Syrian airspace to attack targets in Iran. In such scenarios, Syria could claim a violation of its sovereignty and invoke the alliance for assistance from its members.
The prospect of Syria joining the alliance was publicly raised in August. At that time, A-Shibani, when questioned during a visit to Pakistan, stated that no decision had been made yet but would be considered later. During the same visit, the Syrian foreign minister described Turkey as a key partner in Syria's reconstruction, highlighting their shared border and historical ties.
According to reports, A-Shibani also indicated that Syria's foreign policy would prioritize reconstruction, economic cooperation, and strengthening regional and international partnerships. Regarding Israel, he stated it was too early to discuss a strategic agreement, emphasizing that Damascus's primary concern was the cessation of Israeli attacks and asserting Syria's right to choose its alliances without external dictates.
During the Pakistan visit, both countries agreed to reactivate a joint ministerial committee, resume direct flights, establish a business council, and organize an investment forum. A-Shibani also announced that Syria would elevate its diplomatic representation in Pakistan to the ambassadorial level.