Erdoğan: Egypt Could Join Mecca Defense Pact; Hopes Trump Keeps F-35 Promise

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has indicated that Egypt might join a defense pact recently signed by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan. Erdoğan described Cairo's potential accession as "possible," emphasizing that the agreement remains open to new members. In an interview with Al Jazeera, set to air Sunday evening, Erdoğan stated that the 'Mecca Defense Cooperation Agreement' commits its signatories to coordinated actions in the event of an external assault. "This agreement sent an important message to the world," Erdoğan remarked, adding that Egypt's participation is among the options for the pact's future expansion. The agreement, signed last Friday by Erdoğan, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, stipulates that an armed attack against any of the three will be considered an attack against all. Analysts have compared this collective deterrence provision to NATO's Article 5. However, officials in Islamabad have cautioned against interpreting it as a NATO equivalent or as being directed against any specific country. Erdoğan also addressed a range of regional matters, including tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and conflicts in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. He reiterated Ankara's priority to reopen the Strait, arguing that its prolonged closure serves no one's interests. The Turkish leader acknowledged Qatar's significant role in mediation efforts for a ceasefire in the region. Erdoğan pledged that Turkey would not abandon its neighbors to face regional turmoil alone, specifically mentioning Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. He stressed Ankara's commitment to supporting stability in Syria and indicated plans to visit the country, noting that Syrian Kurds would have "a share in peace and stability." Turkey will continue to strengthen ties with Kurdish communities and safeguard their rights in the region, he added. Regarding Gaza, Erdoğan underscored that Turkey "cannot leave Gaza alone" and will do whatever is necessary to support it, observing that Hamas is acting in good faith while Israel continues its war. Concerning Lebanon, the Turkish president highlighted ongoing Israeli attacks as a serious concern for Ankara. He mentioned discussing the need to end the war in Lebanon with U.S. President Donald Trump during Trump's recent visit to Turkey, emphasizing Washington's role in halting hostilities. Additionally, Erdoğan expressed hope that Trump would fulfill his promise regarding F-35 fighter jets.

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This agreement sent an important message to the world.