Turkiye says Mecca defence pact not aimed at Iran

Turkiye has publicly stated that the defence pact signed in Mecca between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan is not aimed at Iran. The remark comes as the agreement has drawn attention across the Middle East.

Turkiye's statement

Turkish officials emphasized that the defence agreement is not directed against any particular country, including Iran, in an apparent effort to dispel speculation or concern about the pact's geopolitical intent.

Background

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have concluded a defence pact signed in Mecca. Agreements of this kind between regional states are typically watched closely by neighboring countries, particularly given the complex relations among various Middle Eastern and South Asian nations. Iran is regarded as a significant regional power, and any new military or security cooperation among other states is often examined for its potential impact on the regional balance relative to Iran.

Turkiye's statement suggests an effort to prevent regional tensions from escalating or the pact's purpose from being misinterpreted.