Egypt May Join New Defense Alliance with Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey

Egypt is considering joining a newly formed defense alliance that currently includes Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey, according to Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Speaking on Saturday to the state news agency Anadolu, Fidan said Egypt's participation depends on resolving certain technical issues. The alliance, signed on Friday, features a mutual defense clause similar to NATO's Article 5, meaning an attack on one member is considered an attack on all. The agreement also establishes a ministerial committee and a general secretariat based in Saudi Arabia.

Fidan emphasized that the defense pact is not aimed at Iran, stating, "Iran is not the target of the defense alliance. No one is a target as long as they do not attack member states." He further highlighted the importance of maritime security in the Red Sea, noting that Turkey must be involved in Saudi Arabia's international coalition to safeguard these interests.