RIYADH: Türkiye and Pakistan have agreed to activate a mutual defense pact with Saudi Arabia and rapidly deploy military forces and equipment to the kingdom after a series of attacks claimed by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement.
The decision was announced on Oct. 5 after the defense and foreign ministers of the three countries held an emergency meeting in Riyadh. It was the first time the alliance, known as the Mecca pact, had been invoked since its signing on Aug. 7, according to Hurrieyt Daily News.
Under the agreement, an attack on one member is considered an attack on all three. The provision echoes NATO’s principle of collective defense.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said the meeting focused on strengthening Saudi Arabia’s defenses while also seeking a peaceful solution through dialogue.
Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman said the committee had agreed to “activate collective deterrence measures” in response to the attacks and those responsible for them. He added that the three countries had reaffirmed their “solidarity and unity” in protecting Saudi Arabia and its holy sites.
In a statement, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said the three countries would provide the agreed military forces and capabilities and ensure their rapid deployment to Saudi Arabia. It said the commitments would be carried out under approved arrangements and in line with each country’s laws.
The announcement came as forces supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government launched a counteroffensive against the Houthis. The government forces, backed by Saudi Arabia, said they had retaken the Red Sea port of Mocha and gained control of the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
The Saudi-led coalition said around 100 fighter jets were providing air support. The Houthis claimed attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, an Aramco refinery in Rabigh and several other key sites.
The pact was signed amid rising regional tensions following the outbreak of war involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
