Iran says Pakistan-Turkey-Saudi defense pact reflects regional security shift

Iran has stated that a new security pact involving Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia does not pose a threat to Tehran and instead represents a positive evolution in regional security dynamics. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei described the agreement as a sign that regional countries are increasingly prioritizing their own capabilities over reliance on outside powers.

Baghaei suggested that any pact grounded in regional realities, comprehensive in scope, and accurately identifying threats has the potential to bolster security and deter instability. He specifically referenced the "Zionist enemy and its allies," indicating Iran's perspective on regional adversaries.

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Any plan that is based on the geopolitical and historical realities of the region, is comprehensive and inclusive, and correctly identifies the enemy and the threat, has a chance of helping to strengthen security and prevent instability and abuses by the Zionist enemy and its allies.

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar sought to allay concerns, emphasizing that the Mecca Agreement is purely defensive and not directed against any nation. He also indicated that the pact is open to other countries joining, aiming to further strengthen peace, stability, and prosperity across the wider region.

The joint defense agreement was signed by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Mecca. The accord's defensive nature and openness to expansion underscore a regional effort to enhance security cooperation.

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The Mecca Agreement is purely defensive in nature, is not directed against any country and is aimed solely at further strengthening ongoing efforts for peace, stability and prosperity across the wider region.