New Middle East Defense Pact Strengthens Turkey’s Regional Role and Saudi Ties

A new defense alliance called the "Makkah Pact" has been formed between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, primarily committing the members to mutual military and security support if one is attacked. This pact echoes NATO’s Article 5, which has only been invoked once in history. However, economic cooperation, especially in defense industries, is a major focus of the alliance. Turkish defense industries, led by advanced drone technology and emerging fighter jet production, aim to expand their regional influence. Saudi Arabia, which currently imports most of its weapons from the US, seeks to develop its own engineering and defense capabilities, with Turkey offering expertise and products.

The pact also includes broad trade collaborations, such as a large solar energy project funded by Saudi Arabia in Turkey. The alliance’s founders have expressed interest in expanding membership, with Egypt as a potential candidate due to its military strength and strategic location. While Israel may view Egypt’s closer ties to Turkey warily, Egypt could also moderate Turkey’s stance toward Israel.

The pact raises questions about Saudi Arabia’s commitment to normalization with Israel under the Abraham Accords, though analysts suggest Israel must work to maintain its ties with Saudi Arabia despite the new alliance. Pakistan’s involvement adds complexity, as it is a nuclear-armed state with significant missile technology, which could interest Turkey and warrants Israeli attention. The pact does not explicitly address nuclear cooperation, but previous Saudi-Pakistan nuclear links are known.

Overall, the Makkah Pact primarily enhances Turkey’s regional defense and economic influence, while signaling shifting alliances in the Middle East that could impact Israel’s strategic calculations.