Makkah Alliance Members to Meet in Tehran Amid Regional Tensions

Senior officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan are expected to arrive in Tehran today for discussions on regional security coordination. This meeting marks the first high-level gathering of the "Makkah Alliance" members since the escalation of Houthi attacks.

Pakistani Army Chief Assem Munir visited Tehran last week, meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and other officials. During his visit, Iranian sources reportedly informed him that no talks with Washington would occur until Tehran's demands are met, according to Iranian media. Pakistan has been playing a significant role in mediating between the United States and Iran, with previous efforts contributing to a temporary peace agreement in June that quickly collapsed as fighting between Iran and the U.S. resumed.

Saudi Arabia intercepted another wave of missiles and drones on Sunday, as the conflict with the Houthis continues without pause. Earlier this month, the Makkah Alliance defense ministers held an emergency meeting in Riyadh, agreeing to ensure the "rapid deployment" of military forces and assets within Saudi territory. The Houthi attacks have become a destabilizing factor in the broader regional conflict, increasing pressure on Saudi Arabia, a U.S. ally.

The Turkish parliament began ratification procedures for the alliance agreement last week, with discussions ongoing. Pakistan, however, approved the agreement last week.