Full coverage· Security· Updated
Syria Prepares to Join Saudi-Led Defense Pact Amid Israeli Concerns
Syria is reportedly preparing to send around 600 special forces fighters to Saudi Arabia within the next week to bolster border security and potentially aid in fighting Houthis.
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What happened
- 01Syria is preparing to send 600 special forces fighters to Saudi Arabia within the next week.
- 02The Syrian fighters are intended for deployment along Saudi Arabia's border and potential anti-Houthi operations.
- 03Syria is in discussions to join the Saudi-led "Mecca Alliance" defense pact with Turkey and Pakistan.
- 04Saudi Arabia has stipulated that deployed fighters must be Syrian citizens, not foreign nationals.
- 05A regional source expressed concern that Syria might seek alliance support against Israel.
The deployment, which Saudi Arabia insists must consist of Syrian citizens, is part of broader discussions about Syria joining the "Mecca Alliance" defense pact with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan. While Syrian officials have publicly acknowledged these discussions, the country's official news agency denies troop deployment plans. A key concern is that Syria may seek alliance support against Israel.
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Coverage from i24NEWS Arabic More reports may be added as coverage is matched.
