Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia are set to hold their first meeting under the trilateral defence agreement in Istanbul on Monday, with foreign and defence ministers as well as senior military leadership from the three countries expected to participate. The meeting comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia and is expected to focus on regional security and closer defence coordination.

Pakistan will be represented by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. The participation of the countries' senior political and military leadership underlines the importance being attached to the new security framework.

The three countries signed the joint defence agreement in Makkah on August 7. A key provision of the agreement states that an armed attack against any one of the three countries would be treated as an attack against all three. The arrangement has emerged as an important development in defence cooperation between Islamabad, Ankara and Riyadh.

Regional security likely to dominate discussions

The detailed agenda for the first meeting of the Strategic Political and Defence Committee has not been publicly disclosed. However, regional security developments, defence cooperation and coordination on emerging threats are expected to figure prominently in discussions.

The meeting is taking place against the backdrop of continuing tensions in West Asia, including developments involving Iran. The three countries could also discuss ways to improve coordination and strengthen their collective response to potential security challenges.

Pakistan's Foreign Office has said Islamabad's participation reflects its commitment to maintaining strong relations with Türkiye and Saudi Arabia as well as supporting efforts aimed at lasting peace and stability in the region.

Three countries bring different strategic strengths

The defence arrangement brings together countries with different military and strategic capabilities.

Pakistan has a large military and is the only nuclear-armed country among the three. Türkiye, a NATO member, has developed significant defence-manufacturing capabilities, particularly in unmanned aerial systems and other military technologies. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, has substantial financial resources and has invested heavily in strengthening its defence capabilities.

The agreement therefore provides a framework for greater coordination between the three countries, although the precise mechanisms for implementing their collective security commitments remain important areas to watch.

Bangladesh shows interest in joining

The possibility of expanding the framework has also attracted attention in Bangladesh. Dhaka has indicated that it could consider joining the arrangement if a formal proposal is made.

Bangladesh's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir said participation would not necessarily affect the country's relations with other nations and that Dhaka would continue to pursue a balanced foreign policy. Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman has also indicated that Bangladesh would consider the proposal positively if it receives an invitation.

However, Bangladesh has not yet received a formal invitation to join the defence arrangement.

Separate four-nation meeting also planned

Alongside the trilateral meeting, a separate meeting involving the foreign ministers of Türkiye, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Egypt has also been proposed.

The four-country grouping was established in March to increase coordination on regional security and stability. Its previous meeting was held in Amman, Jordan, on August 5, where participants stressed dialogue and cooperation to support regional peace and stability.

India monitoring security developments

India has also been closely watching developments surrounding the new defence arrangement. Asked about the agreement during a weekly briefing in New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India was monitoring all developments that could have implications for the country's security and would take necessary measures to safeguard its interests.

The trilateral meeting is therefore being held at a sensitive time for the wider region. Pakistan faces its own security challenges along its western border, Saudi Arabia remains concerned about threats emanating from the region, while Türkiye continues to deal with security issues involving Kurdish militant groups and strained relations with Israel.

For Islamabad, Ankara and Riyadh, the Istanbul meeting will provide the first opportunity to translate the political commitment announced in Makkah into a more structured framework for defence and security coordination.

Pakistan’s decision to deepen defence cooperation with Somalia could mark a new phase in Islamabad’s efforts to expand its strategic role beyond South Asia and into the wider security architecture of the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and western Indian Ocean.

The defence cooperation agreement, signed in Islamabad on August 4, covers counter-terrorism, military training, exchanges and capability building. The agreement came days before Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, creating a broader framework for security cooperation.

The timing has drawn attention because Somalia sits at the intersection of several competing strategic interests involving Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the UAE and other regional and global powers.

Somalia Gains Defence Partner

Pakistan has historical links with Somalia through its participation in United Nations operations in the country during the early 1990s. Pakistani troops were among the international forces involved in the UN mission in Mogadishu before leaving the country in 1995.

The latest agreement, however, represents a different form of engagement. Rather than committing large numbers of combat troops, Pakistan is expected to focus on training, counter-terrorism expertise, military exchanges and capability development.

Somalia has been rebuilding its security forces while continuing its fight against Al-Shabaab, the Al-Qaeda-linked militant organisation that remains a major security challenge in the country.

What Pakistan Can Offer

Pakistan brings decades of military and counter-insurgency experience to the partnership. Its armed forces have extensive experience in counter-terrorism operations, while the country also possesses a defence industry capable of producing relatively affordable military equipment.

There has also been speculation about Somali interest in Pakistan’s JF-17 fighter aircraft, potentially with support from Saudi Arabia and Turkey. However, no confirmed contract has been announced, making the possibility different from an established defence deal.

For Islamabad, military training and equipment cooperation could provide a way to increase its strategic relevance without committing substantial forces to another overseas conflict.

Saudi Arabia’s Role

Saudi Arabia is an important factor in understanding Pakistan’s growing interest in the Horn of Africa.

Riyadh has expanded its engagement with the Red Sea region and is seeking greater influence over maritime security, regional stability and the strategic approaches to the Arabian Peninsula.

Somalia’s location near the Gulf of Aden and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait gives it particular importance. The maritime route is a critical connection between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, making security in the area important for regional and international trade.

Pakistan’s longstanding defence relationship with Saudi Arabia could therefore acquire a broader strategic dimension through cooperation involving Somalia.

Turkey Adds Another Dimension

Turkey is another important element of Islamabad’s emerging strategy.

Ankara has significantly expanded its defence and diplomatic presence in Africa and has developed capabilities in drones, naval systems and other military technologies.

The Pakistan-Saudi-Turkey defence framework could allow the three countries to combine different military strengths. Saudi Arabia provides financial and strategic weight, Turkey brings a growing defence-industrial base, while Pakistan offers a large military establishment, training capabilities and operational experience.

For Islamabad, closer coordination with both Riyadh and Ankara could help transform its traditional defence partnerships into wider geopolitical influence.

Maritime Security Interests

Pakistan also has a direct maritime interest in the region.

The country participates in the Combined Maritime Forces and has been involved in international efforts related to maritime security and counter-piracy in and around the Arabian Sea.

Somalia and the Gulf of Aden provide a geographical link between Pakistan’s existing maritime interests and the wider Red Sea security environment.

Greater defence cooperation with Somalia could therefore allow Islamabad to strengthen its role in a region that is increasingly important for shipping, energy routes and international security.

Risk of Strategic Overreach

Pakistan’s expanding role also carries risks.

The Horn of Africa already involves several external powers, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkey, Qatar, Egypt, the United States and China. Their interests often overlap but can also compete.

A deeper Pakistani military presence could potentially draw Islamabad into regional rivalries that extend beyond its immediate strategic interests.

Pakistan also faces economic constraints and has limited capacity for sustained overseas military commitments. A major deployment to Somalia or involvement in multiple African conflicts could place additional pressure on its military and financial resources.

For this reason, Pakistan is more likely to focus on training, equipment, military exchanges and defence diplomacy rather than a large-scale combat role.

A New Strategic Frontier

The Somalia agreement suggests that Islamabad is increasingly using defence diplomacy to expand its strategic relevance beyond South Asia.

For Saudi Arabia, Pakistan can provide military expertise and manpower without necessarily requiring a major combat deployment. For Somalia, the partnership offers access to an experienced military and a potential source of training and equipment.

The key question is how far Pakistan chooses to take this engagement.

If Islamabad manages to maintain a limited advisory and capacity-building role, Somalia could become a relatively low-cost entry point into the strategic affairs of the Horn of Africa and Red Sea. However, deeper involvement could expose Pakistan to rivalries and conflicts that are not directly connected to its own security interests.

The Somalia pact therefore appears to be more than a routine military-training agreement. It could be an early indication of Pakistan’s attempt to build a wider defence-diplomacy footprint across the western Indian Ocean and the Horn of Africa.

Differences are emerging between the United States and some of its Gulf allies over President Donald Trump’s approach to negotiations with Iran, with regional governments reportedly concerned that prolonged talks have yet to produce a firm agreement.

According to a report cited from The Washington Post, some Gulf countries are disappointed with Washington’s efforts to reach a settlement with Tehran. The report said these governments believe the negotiations have failed to deliver a meaningful outcome despite continuing diplomatic engagement.

The White House has rejected suggestions that Gulf leaders are unhappy with Trump, saying the US president maintains strong relationships with leaders across the region and that Washington has remained in close contact with its allies since the conflict began.

Trump Rules Out Immediate Attack

Trump has also indicated that the United States is not currently preparing for another military strike against Iran.

According to Axios, Trump said last week that Washington was engaged in what he described as “half-hearted talks” with Tehran while closely watching Iran’s worsening economic situation.

The US president had previously cancelled a planned military operation against Iran, saying that a diplomatic agreement could make further military action unnecessary.

The uncertainty surrounding the negotiations has nevertheless kept military escalation as a possibility, particularly if discussions fail to resolve the major issues separating Washington and Tehran.

Hormuz Becomes Key Dispute

One of the biggest obstacles in the negotiations is the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway between Iran and Oman through which a significant share of global oil and gas shipments passes.

Trump has demanded that the strait be reopened fully and immediately. Iran, however, has linked the reopening to the lifting of what it describes as a US naval blockade and the withdrawal of American forces positioned near Iranian territory.

The dispute has broader implications because any prolonged disruption in the waterway could affect global energy supplies and push up international oil prices.

Iran and Oman Hold Separate Talks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that Tehran is separately holding discussions with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

The talks reportedly involve practical and technical questions, including the establishment of safe routes for commercial vessels using the waterway.

Araghchi has stressed that these discussions are separate from the wider negotiations between Iran and the United States.

Oman has previously played an important role in facilitating communication between Washington and Tehran, making its involvement particularly significant as both sides seek a way through the current impasse.

Gulf States Take Different Positions

Despite being close US partners, Gulf countries are not taking a uniform position on how Washington should deal with Iran.

The United Arab Emirates is reportedly more supportive of increased military pressure on Tehran. The UAE's position is based on the assessment that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps could be forced to make concessions if Washington increases pressure and establishes greater control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi Arabia, by contrast, has favoured dialogue and de-escalation. Riyadh had previously opposed a US plan to use military force to reopen the waterway.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also reportedly urged Trump by telephone not to pursue further military action.

Qatar Pushes Mediation

Qatar has emerged as one of the key regional mediators in discussions involving Iran, the United States and Oman.

Qatari officials have reportedly been communicating with Trump and conveyed that Iran had accepted a proposal concerning the Strait of Hormuz.

Qatar's role reflects the wider Gulf concern that a prolonged confrontation between Washington and Tehran could have serious consequences for regional security, trade and energy markets.

Iran Accuses US and Israel

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has meanwhile accused the United States and Israel of attempting to turn Gulf countries against Tehran.

Speaking to Iranian state television, Pezeshkian said Washington and Tel Aviv were exploiting Iran's internal difficulties and attempting to weaken its relationships with neighbouring countries.

At the same time, he stressed the importance of improving ties with Gulf states, signalling Tehran's interest in preventing the current tensions from developing into a broader regional confrontation.

Energy Markets Remain at Risk

The disagreement over the Strait of Hormuz remains particularly sensitive because of its importance to global energy trade.

A prolonged closure or restricted movement through the waterway could disrupt oil and gas supplies from Gulf producers and create additional volatility in international markets.

For Washington's Gulf allies, the priority is therefore not limited to the outcome of the US-Iran negotiations. The security of the waterway, avoidance of a wider war and stability in regional energy markets are also major concerns.

With Washington and Tehran still divided over the terms of a possible agreement, Gulf governments are likely to continue balancing their security relationship with the United States against the economic and geopolitical risks of further confrontation with Iran.

Yemen’s Houthi group has claimed responsibility for a drone attack targeting an Aramco facility in Saudi Arabia’s Najran, saying the strike was carried out in response to what it described as a violation of Yemeni airspace by Saudi military aircraft.

The claim was reported by the Houthi-run SABA news agency, which cited a Houthi military source. However, there was no immediate independent confirmation from Saudi authorities or Saudi Aramco regarding the alleged attack.

Houthis Cite Airspace Violation

According to the Houthi military source quoted by SABA, Saudi military aircraft allegedly entered Yemeni airspace over the northeastern part of Saada governorate.

The Houthi group described the alleged incident as a violation of Yemen’s sovereignty and said the reported drone operation was carried out in retaliation.

The group did not provide detailed information about the alleged Saudi aircraft activity or explain whether any prior military engagement had taken place.

Aramco Facility Targeted

The Houthis claimed that their drone targeted an Aramco facility in Najran, a Saudi city located close to the Yemen border.

The group did not disclose the type of drone reportedly used in the operation, the direction from which it was launched or other operational details.

It also did not provide evidence establishing whether the drone actually struck the facility.

At the time of the report, it remained unclear whether the alleged attack caused any damage, casualties or disruption to energy operations.

No Immediate Saudi Confirmation

Saudi authorities had not immediately confirmed the Houthi claim.

There was also no immediate statement from Saudi Aramco regarding an attack on one of its facilities in Najran.

The absence of an independent confirmation means key details of the reported incident, including whether a drone reached the facility and whether any damage occurred, remain unclear.

Rising Regional Tensions

The reported claim comes against the backdrop of continuing tensions between the Houthi movement and Saudi Arabia, with Yemen's conflict having wider implications for security across the Arabian Peninsula.

The Houthis, who control large parts of northern Yemen including the capital Sanaa, have previously carried out drone and missile operations against targets in Saudi Arabia.

The group has also become a major regional security actor following its attacks on shipping in and around the Red Sea, linking its military actions to the wider conflict in the Middle East.

Energy Infrastructure Remains Sensitive

Any confirmed attack on an Aramco facility would carry wider significance because Saudi Arabia is one of the world's largest oil producers and Aramco operates critical energy infrastructure across the kingdom.

Saudi energy facilities have previously been targeted by drones and missiles, raising concerns about the vulnerability of regional oil infrastructure and global energy supplies.

However, there was no immediate evidence in the reported claim that Saudi oil production or exports had been affected.

Details Await Independent Verification

For now, the reported drone strike remains a Houthi claim that has not been independently verified.

Further information from Saudi authorities, Saudi Aramco or other independent sources would be required to establish whether the alleged attack took place, whether the Aramco facility was actually hit and whether it resulted in casualties or material damage.

The incident, if confirmed, could add to concerns over renewed military tensions along the Saudi-Yemeni border and the broader security situation in the region.

Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has said the emergence of the Mecca Defence Agreementinvolving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey reflects a wider shift in global geopolitics, with the international order becoming increasingly pluralistic and power more widely distributed among different countries and regional groupings.

Speaking during the Indo-Mediterranean Dialogues, Morrison said the changing international environment was likely to create greater space for new security partnerships and smaller strategic groupings.

“We're going to see more and more pluralism in the global order,” Morrison said while discussing the recently formed defence arrangement and broader geopolitical developments.

Shift in Global Power

According to Morrison, the traditional structure of international power is undergoing significant changes as countries increasingly pursue partnerships based on specific strategic and national interests.

He said the world was moving towards a more distributed geopolitical system, where different countries could form flexible alliances and cooperative arrangements instead of relying entirely on large, established blocs.

The former Australian leader linked this development to the growing importance of regional and “minilateral” partnerships, particularly across the Indo-Pacific and the wider Middle East.

Mecca Defence Agreement in Focus

Morrison's remarks came amid discussions over the new defence cooperation framework involving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey.

The agreement has generated international attention because of its potential implications for regional security and military cooperation.

While details of how the arrangement will evolve remain subject to further institutional and political developments, Morrison said its emergence should be viewed within the larger transformation taking place in the global order.

The growing number of regional arrangements, he suggested, reflects a world in which strategic influence is no longer concentrated in a small number of traditional power centres.

India’s Growing Strategic Role

During the discussion, Morrison also highlighted India's increasing geopolitical importance and described New Delhi as a key player in the future strategic balance of the Indo-Pacific.

He said India's role was becoming increasingly significant as the global distribution of economic and political power changes.

Morrison particularly emphasised India's importance to the Quad, which brings together India, Australia, Japan and the United States.

According to him, India's participation gives the grouping a distinctive strategic character and will remain critical to its future effectiveness. He also argued that the Quad should maintain a broad agenda covering security, economic cooperation, technology and humanitarian issues rather than becoming solely a military alliance.

More Flexible Partnerships Ahead

Morrison said geopolitical cooperation in the coming years could increasingly involve countries working together on selected issues without necessarily joining rigid alliance structures.

This could lead to what he described as greater “mix and match” among countries and partnerships, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

Such arrangements may focus on areas including maritime security, technology, trade, critical minerals, supply chains and defence cooperation.

The development of new regional frameworks, including the Mecca Defence Agreement, could therefore become part of a broader trend towards more flexible international partnerships.

China and Regional Security

The former Australian prime minister also discussed China's expanding strategic influence and the challenges facing countries across the Indo-Pacific.

He pointed to developments involving Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Myanmar while underlining the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean.

Morrison said India would remain central to efforts aimed at maintaining regional balance, particularly as geopolitical and economic competition intensifies.

He also highlighted India's growing potential in areas such as technology, manufacturing, space and defence-industrial cooperation.

Changing Geopolitical Landscape

Morrison's comments underline the growing debate over how the global order may evolve as established alliances face new challenges and emerging powers expand their influence.

The rise of new defence arrangements and issue-based partnerships could reshape regional diplomacy in the years ahead.

For countries such as India, the changing environment could create greater opportunities to pursue strategic partnerships while maintaining flexibility in foreign policy.

As new groupings emerge across different regions, Morrison's assessment suggests that the future global order may be defined less by a single dominant structure and more by multiple centres of power, competing interests and increasingly diverse strategic partnerships.

Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir could take a prominent role in the emerging defence alliance between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey after Ankara said the military chiefs of the three countries would be part of the alliance's proposed governing structure.

The development follows the signing of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey on August 7. The agreement is aimed at strengthening defence cooperation and establishing a more structured security partnership among the three countries.

Military Chiefs to Join Governing Body

Turkey's Defence Ministry said on Thursday that the mechanisms created under the agreement would involve the defence ministers, foreign ministers and chiefs of general staff or armed forces commanders of the three countries.

According to the ministry, coordination among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey would take place at the highest level.

The announcement potentially gives Munir a significant role in the alliance's military decision-making structure. However, there has been no official announcement naming him as commander of the proposed alliance.

The agreement also provides for joint military exercises involving the three countries.

Similarities With NATO Article 5

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan had earlier described the Makkah agreement as technically similar to NATO's Article 5, which establishes the principle of collective defence among NATO members.

Fidan had also said that a committee of ministers would be established to oversee the alliance, along with a general secretariat based in Saudi Arabia.

The latest statement from Turkey indicates that the proposed institutional framework could be broader, incorporating both political and military leadership.

The Turkish Defence Ministry said the fundamental objective was to place defence and military cooperation between the three countries on a more institutional and sustainable footing.

Joint Military Exercises Planned

Under the agreement, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey are expected to expand cooperation across multiple military domains.

The Turkish Defence Ministry said planned exercises would involve land, naval and air forces, as well as air defence and unmanned systems.

The three countries also intend to deepen cooperation in the defence industry. This could include joint development and production, technology cooperation and maintenance and logistics support.

Unmanned and autonomous systems, electronic warfare and artificial intelligence capabilities are expected to receive particular attention.

Is It Really an ‘Islamic NATO’?

Despite comparisons with NATO, analysts caution against describing the three-country alliance as an established “Islamic NATO” at this stage.

Aishwaria Sonavane, who heads the Pakistan programme at the Takshashila Institution, has previously argued that the three countries do not yet possess the institutional foundations and interoperability required for a NATO-style alliance.

Turkey has extensive experience as a NATO member, while Pakistan's military ecosystem is heavily reliant on Chinese technology. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, continues to depend significantly on US-origin defence systems.

These differences could make the creation of common military standards and integrated operational capabilities a long-term process.

Strategic Defence Partnership

The agreement nevertheless marks a significant step in defence cooperation among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

The three countries have different strategic interests and defence relationships, but their proposed framework could provide a platform for greater coordination in military exercises, defence production, technology and security planning.

The inclusion of military chiefs in the governing structure could also give the alliance a stronger operational dimension.

For now, however, Munir's designation as an “Islamic NATO” commander remains speculative. The formal structure, leadership arrangements and decision-making mechanisms of the alliance will determine how far the Makkah agreement develops beyond a defence cooperation pact.

Pakistan has called on other Muslim-majority countries to set aside their differences and consider joining its new defence agreement with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, with Defence Minister Khawaja Asif saying the grouping could eventually develop into a broader collective security alliance similar to NATO.

The remarks came days after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, a pact that includes a mutual defence commitment under which an armed attack on one member would be treated as an attack on all three.

Speaking to Geo News, Asif said the agreement should not remain limited to its three founding members and argued that other Muslim nations should be able to join.

Pakistan Wants Wider Muslim Alliance

Asif said the agreement should not become an exclusive arrangement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye.

He called on Muslim countries to put aside bilateral disputes and other differences in favour of cooperation on security issues.

The Pakistani defence minister said a broader alliance could operate along the lines of NATO, although the exact structure and scope of any future expansion remain unclear.

His comments come as the new pact attracts attention across West Asia and South Asia amid heightened regional security tensions.

What Does the Defence Pact Say?

The Makkah agreement was signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday.

Its central provision states that an armed attack against any one of the three countries would be regarded as an attack against all of them.

The provision has drawn comparisons with Article 5 of the NATO treaty, which establishes the principle of collective defence.

However, the three countries have yet to spell out all operational details of the arrangement.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has said that if one of the members comes under attack, the three countries would consult each other on the nature and extent of assistance required.

He has also stressed that the agreement is defensive and is not aimed at any particular country.

Three Countries, Different Strengths

The three founding members bring different strategic capabilities to the partnership.

Pakistan has extensive military experience and is the world's only Muslim-majority nuclear-armed state. Saudi Arabia contributes significant financial resources, energy influence and a strategic position in the Gulf.

Türkiye, meanwhile, is a NATO member with one of the alliance's largest armed forces and a rapidly expanding domestic defence industry.

Its military-industrial capabilities include drones, naval systems, missiles and other advanced defence technologies.

The combination of Pakistani military capabilities, Saudi economic resources and Turkish defence production has prompted analysts to examine the potential significance of the arrangement for the region.

Could More Countries Join?

Pakistan is not the only country suggesting that the alliance could expand.

Fidan has indicated that Turkish President Erdoğan supports the possibility of bringing additional countries into the arrangement. He also mentioned Egypt as one potential candidate.

Pakistan's leadership has similarly stressed that the agreement remains open to other countries that are willing to accept its principles.

However, whether major Muslim countries such as Egypt or others eventually join will depend on their own strategic interests and relations with the three founding members.

Pakistan Says Pact Is Not Against Iran

Islamabad has sought to emphasise that the agreement is not directed against Iran or any other country.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar described the pact as "purely defensive in nature" and said it was intended to strengthen regional security cooperation.

Dar also said the agreement does not replace or cancel existing bilateral or multilateral arrangements involving the participating countries.

In a post on X, he said Pakistan would continue engaging with countries across the region to promote peace and stability.

A New Security Framework?

The pact comes at a time of heightened tensions across West Asia and growing concerns about regional security.

For Pakistan, expanding the agreement could strengthen its diplomatic and strategic role among Muslim-majority nations. For Saudi Arabia, closer defence cooperation with Pakistan and Türkiye could provide additional security partnerships at a time of uncertainty over regional conflicts.

Türkiye, meanwhile, could gain greater influence in a broader security framework connecting South Asia with the Gulf.

Whether the Makkah agreement develops into a wider alliance, however, will depend on how its collective-defence clause is implemented and whether other countries are willing to join.

For now, Pakistan's call for Muslim nations to "put differences aside" marks an ambitious attempt to turn the three-country pact into a broader regional security platform.

Pakistan's military-backed media campaign celebrating its new defence agreement with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye has triggered a wave of online ridicule, with critics questioning the highly theatrical presentation of a pact that carries significant strategic implications for the region.

At the centre of the controversy is a nearly seven-minute patriotic music video titled “ONE SHIELD — Pakistan • Saudi Arabia • Türkiye”, released by Pakistan's military media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), in collaboration with Pakistan Studio HD.

The video was released on August 7, shortly after Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement in Saudi Arabia.

A cinematic presentation

The production uses orchestral music, Arabic percussion, dramatic vocals and extensive military imagery to portray the three countries as part of a common security front.

The video features Pakistani JF-17 fighter aircraft, Turkish Bayraktar Akinci drones and Saudi F-15 jets, alongside naval vessels and footage of the three leaders.

It also prominently features Pakistan's military chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, whose role in the defence arrangement is highlighted throughout the production.

The lyrics rely heavily on religious and pan-Islamic symbolism, including references to a shared faith, holy sites and the three national flags.

The presentation was intended to underline the message of unity and collective deterrence. Instead, its dramatic style quickly became the focus of online discussion.

Social media backlash

Soon after its release, clips from the video began circulating across platforms including X, YouTube and Instagram. Users posted memes, parodies and sarcastic comments about the production.

One criticism was that a major defence agreement, particularly one involving countries with substantial military capabilities, should be communicated primarily through diplomatic statements and strategic briefings rather than a music-video-style campaign.

Others focused on the contrast between the celebratory tone of the production and Pakistan's continuing economic difficulties.

Pakistan has faced persistent inflation, high energy costs, fiscal pressures and dependence on external financial support. Critics therefore questioned the optics of presenting the country as a major security guarantor while households continue to deal with economic pressures.

Different approaches from partners

The reaction was also fuelled by the comparatively restrained communication from Saudi Arabia and Türkiye.

Official statements from Riyadh and Ankara focused on defence cooperation, regional stability and the stated defensive nature of the agreement rather than promoting the pact through a comparable musical production.

That difference in messaging contributed to the perception online that Pakistan's presentation was more theatrical than those of its partners.

ISPR has previously used music and highly produced videos to promote national events, military achievements and patriotic campaigns. However, Pakistan's increasingly polarised domestic political environment has also made such productions more vulnerable to criticism.

Iran raises objections

The agreement has also attracted criticism from Iran, which views emerging regional military alignments through the lens of its own security concerns.

Iranian lawmakers and media outlets criticised the agreement and questioned whether external security partnerships could provide lasting protection for Saudi Arabia.

The online debate surrounding Pakistan's anthem therefore became intertwined with a wider regional argument over the significance of the new defence arrangement.

India has also been monitoring the development. The Ministry of External Affairs has maintained a cautious public position while indicating that New Delhi is following developments related to the agreement.

What the agreement actually means

Behind the social media controversy is a defence pact with potentially significant strategic consequences.

The Mecca agreement includes a collective-defence provision under which an armed attack against one member is to be treated as an attack against all three. The wording has drawn comparisons with NATO's Article 5, although the precise scope and future implementation of the arrangement will depend on how the three governments operationalise it.

The agreement also expands on the existing defence relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan by bringing Türkiye into the framework.

The three countries bring different capabilities to the partnership. Saudi Arabia has substantial financial resources and advanced military equipment, Türkiye has developed a growing domestic defence industry, particularly in drones and aerospace, while Pakistan has extensive military experience and a nuclear deterrent.

Strategy beyond the spectacle

The online reaction to the anthem has overshadowed much of the strategic discussion surrounding the agreement.

For Pakistan, the pact offers an opportunity to deepen defence and strategic ties with two influential partners. For Saudi Arabia, closer cooperation with Pakistan and Türkiye could diversify its security relationships at a time of uncertainty in the wider region. Türkiye, meanwhile, could gain additional opportunities for defence-industrial cooperation.

The agreement comes against a backdrop of conflict and instability across West Asia, concerns over energy security and questions about the reliability of traditional security arrangements.

Whether the pact develops into a durable security framework will depend less on its promotional campaign and more on military cooperation, political coordination and the willingness of all three governments to respond collectively during a future crisis.

For now, however, the dramatic anthem has ensured that a serious geopolitical agreement is being discussed online as much for its presentation as for its strategic substance.

The defence agreement signed by Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in Mecca on August 7 has added a new layer to the security landscape of West Asia and the wider Muslim world. The pact says an armed attack against any one of the three countries will be treated as an attack against all, drawing comparisons with NATO's collective-defence principle.

However, the agreement does not specify what military assistance would be required if one member came under attack. Analysts therefore see the arrangement less as a fully integrated military alliance and more as a strategic hedge against growing regional uncertainty.

Three Countries, Different Interests

The three countries bring different strategic strengths to the agreement. Saudi Arabia offers financial resources, energy importance and a crucial geographical position. Pakistan brings a large and experienced military as well as longstanding defence ties with both Riyadh and Ankara. Turkey contributes a major conventional military and an expanding indigenous defence industry.

Their reasons for joining the arrangement, however, are not identical.

For Saudi Arabia, the pact provides another layer of security at a time when Riyadh is seeking to diversify its strategic partnerships. The United States remains a major security partner, but Saudi Arabia has increasingly shown an interest in maintaining multiple options.

Pakistan, meanwhile, could gain greater importance in the emerging regional security architecture. The agreement gives Islamabad another avenue to strengthen its diplomatic and military relevance beyond its traditional security concerns involving India, Afghanistan and terrorism.

Pakistan Faces Strategic Dilemma

The agreement could also create difficult choices for Pakistan. Iran maintains important geographical, economic and political relevance for Islamabad.

If Iran were to attack Saudi Arabia, for example, Pakistan could face pressure to respond under the collective-defence provision. At the same time, Islamabad would have to consider the consequences of directly entering a conflict with Tehran.

The pact therefore provides Pakistan with strategic elevation while potentially increasing the number of regional commitments it must balance.

Turkey Faces Complex Choices

Turkey's position is particularly complicated because it is already a member of NATO and maintains relationships with several competing powers, including Russia and Iran.

Ankara has also developed strategic interests in Syria, Iraq and the Caucasus. Its relationship with Tehran involves both competition and cooperation.

A conflict involving Saudi Arabia and Iran could therefore test the practical meaning of the new agreement. While the pact establishes a collective-security principle, it does not clarify whether assistance would involve intelligence sharing, air defence, naval support, military equipment or direct combat operations.

Is It an Alliance Against Iran?

The agreement has inevitably prompted speculation about whether it represents a Sunni security bloc aimed at countering Iran, the region's most prominent Shia power.

Such a description, however, would oversimplify the arrangement. The three signatories have presented the pact as defensive and have not formally identified Iran as its target.

Saudi Arabia has also pursued efforts to improve relations with Tehran. As a result, the agreement could be viewed as an additional security mechanism rather than an explicit declaration of confrontation.

Nevertheless, Iran is likely to closely monitor how the arrangement develops and whether its collective-defence provision acquires a more specific military meaning.

Impact on US and Gulf

The pact does not necessarily indicate that Saudi Arabia is moving away from Washington. Instead, it could reflect Riyadh's effort to maintain several security relationships simultaneously.

The development also adds complexity to the Gulf's already diverse strategic environment. Countries such as the UAE, Qatar and Oman have their own relationships with Iran, Turkey, Israel, China and the United States and may prefer strategic flexibility over membership in a rigid military bloc.

The agreement could consequently become one part of a broader network of overlapping regional partnerships rather than the foundation of a single unified alliance.

Deterrence or Strategic Risk?

The collective-defence clause could strengthen deterrence by forcing any potential aggressor to consider the possibility of confronting three countries instead of one.

At the same time, the lack of clarity over the nature of military assistance could become a weakness during an actual crisis. The arrangement may face its biggest test if one member expects the others to participate in a conflict they would prefer to avoid.

For now, describing the pact as a "Muslim NATO" may be premature. Unlike NATO, the agreement does not yet have the same institutional structure, integrated military mechanisms or clearly defined response procedures.

Its significance lies instead in the changing approach to regional security. Saudi Arabia is seeking additional security insurance, Pakistan is gaining strategic relevance, and Turkey is expanding its influence.

The real test of the Mecca agreement will come not when it is signed, but when one of its members faces a crisis and the other two have to decide how far their commitment extends.

Amid rising tensions in West Asia, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has condemned recent missile attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels against Saudi Arabia and attacks targeting commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

Following an emergency meeting on Friday, Security Council members expressed concern over the worsening security situation in Yemen and warned that continued escalation could threaten regional stability and international peace and security.

Saudi Arabia Missile Attacks

The UNSC said Houthi forces had launched missile attacks against Saudi Arabia since July 13. The Council also condemned attacks on commercial vessels since July 22.

Members of the Security Council urged the Houthis to avoid further escalation and called for existing dialogue channels to be used to address concerns and reduce tensions.

The attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea have raised fresh concerns over maritime security and international trade. The waterway is a major route for global shipping, and prolonged instability could disrupt regional as well as international commerce.

Support for Yemen’s Sovereignty

The Security Council reaffirmed its strong commitment to Yemen's sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity.

The Council stressed that Yemen's sovereignty over its territory and airspace must be respected. It also called on all parties to comply with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

The statement comes amid growing concerns over military activity and competing claims of authority in Yemen.

Concern Over Airport Landings

The UNSC also condemned what it described as unauthorised aircraft landings at Yemeni airports.

According to the Council, aircraft landed at Sana'a International Airport on July 3 and Hudaydah Airport on July 13without permission or clearance from the Yemeni government.

The Security Council said such landings violated international civil aviation rules.

It emphasised that flights operating to Yemeni airports should be coordinated with the Yemeni government and receive prior authorisation.

Focus on Humanitarian Access

The Council also highlighted the need for safe, secure and sustainable air access to Yemen for humanitarian and civilian purposes.

It said humanitarian and civilian flights should be coordinated with the Yemeni government and conducted in accordance with international law and applicable civil aviation regulations.

The UNSC stressed that efforts to address Yemen's security crisis should also take into account the needs of civilians and humanitarian organisations.

Reference to Resolution 2216

The Security Council reminded all parties of their obligations under international law and relevant UN resolutions, including Resolution 2216, adopted in 2015.

The resolution includes restrictions on the supply, sale or transfer of arms and related military assistance to individuals and entities designated by the Security Council's 2140 Sanctions Committee, including the Houthis.

The Council urged all sides to comply with the existing sanctions framework and avoid actions that could further destabilise Yemen.

UN Peace Efforts

The UNSC also reiterated its support for UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg and his efforts to find a political solution to the conflict.

The Council backed a negotiated, inclusive and Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned political settlement, based on agreed references and relevant Security Council resolutions.

The latest developments have heightened concerns over regional security and freedom of navigation, particularly around the Red Sea.

The Security Council urged restraint and called on the Houthis and other concerned parties to avoid further escalation and use dialogue to resolve outstanding issues.

The Council warned that continued military escalation could undermine ongoing peace efforts in Yemen and create wider security risks across the region.

At least 10 people have been killed in intensified Houthi attacks on Yemen's strategic Marib province, according to Yemeni officials and military sources, as fighting escalates and the United Nations warns of a growing risk of renewed large-scale conflict.

The latest violence comes after a fragile 2022 truce between the Iran-backed Houthis and Yemen's Saudi-supported government effectively unravelled last month. The renewed fighting has raised fears that Yemen could once again slide into a broader conflict after years of relative calm along several front lines.

On Thursday, at least 58 government troops were killed in Houthi missile attacks in and around Marib province, according to an army source cited by AFP.

UN Warns of Wider Conflict

UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg warned that the country is facing an increasingly dangerous situation.

"Today faces a greater risk of renewed large-scale conflict than at any point since the UN-brokered truce of April 2022," Grundberg said in a statement.

Against the backdrop of the wider confrontation between the United States and Iran, the UN envoy urged both sides to exercise restraint and return to what he described as good-faith negotiations.

The warning comes as the Houthis, who are backed by Iran, have stepped up military activity against forces aligned with Yemen's internationally recognised government.

Civilians Among Those Killed

A Yemeni military source told AFP that the latest Houthi attacks killed eight members of government forces and wounded 12 others.

Yemen's Health Minister Qasim Buhaibeh separately said Houthi shelling had struck residential neighbourhoods and displacement camps in Marib city.

According to an initial toll cited by the minister, two civilians were killed and 14 others wounded.

The attacks have therefore raised fresh concerns over the safety of civilians and displaced people living in areas close to the front lines.

Houthis Claim Military Targets

The Houthis said their latest strikes targeted a government military camp in Marib province.

Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree claimed that Saudi-backed forces had been mobilising in the area and said the group's fighters had targeted the Sahn al-Jinn camp.

According to a Yemeni military source cited by AFP, the Houthis launched more than 10 missiles and seven one-way attack drones against military positions in Marib.

The source spoke anonymously because of the sensitivity of the military operations.

The Houthis have portrayed the attacks as a response to what they describe as a Saudi-backed military build-up in the province.

Saudi Coalition Issues Warning

A source close to the Saudi military said the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen's government since 2015 would not remain passive in the face of the latest Houthi attacks.

The source described Marib as a "red line" and warned that Saudi authorities would not accept a Houthi takeover of the province.

At the same time, the source said the coalition did not seek further escalation.

The statements indicate the possibility of a wider military response if the Houthis continue their offensive in the strategically important region.

Why Marib Matters

Marib is one of Yemen's most strategically important provinces because of its energy resources and location.

The province is divided between the Houthis and forces aligned with the Yemeni government. Government forces retain control of Marib city as well as key oil fields and energy facilities.

The Houthis launched a renewed offensive to capture the energy-rich province in 2021. However, fighting largely subsided following the 2022 truce.

The latest escalation threatens to reopen one of Yemen's most important battlefronts.

Truce Gives Way to Escalation

Yemen has been caught in a devastating conflict for more than a decade, with the Houthis controlling large parts of the country, including the capital, Sanaa.

The group's involvement in the broader US-Iran confrontation has further complicated the situation.

Last month, the Houthis welcomed an Iranian aircraft into Sanaa, triggering a series of retaliatory actions. The group subsequently announced a maritime blockade targeting Saudi Arabia and began attacking tankers, further increasing regional tensions.

Earlier last month, Houthi fighters also killed 16 soldiers in an attack on government-aligned forces south of the port city of Hodeidah, according to medical officials.

With fighting now intensifying around Marib, the UN's warning of a renewed large-scale conflict has added urgency to calls for restraint and a return to negotiations.

For Yemen, the latest escalation raises the prospect of another prolonged period of fighting, with civilians and displaced communities once again facing the greatest risks.

US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Iran could end "pretty soon," even as military tensions continue across the Middle East and global markets remain on edge.

Speaking to reporters in Washington, Trump dismissed reports suggesting the US was facing ammunition shortages, asserting that the country possesses an "unlimited supply" of weapons and remains fully prepared for any escalation.

"We are in very good shape. We have literally massive amounts of ammunition," Trump said.

Trump Optimistic About Conflict

The US President said he believes the conflict cannot continue indefinitely, arguing that Iran "can't go much longer" under the current circumstances.

His remarks come amid continued military exchanges and heightened regional instability involving Iran, Israel and Iran-backed armed groups across West Asia.

Despite his optimistic outlook, there has been no official announcement regarding ceasefire negotiations or a formal diplomatic breakthrough.

Iran Accuses US of Economic Pressure

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the United States of maintaining "maximum pressure" through sanctions and economic restrictions.

He claimed that recent attacks had severely affected Iran's energy infrastructure, resulting in the loss of nearly 230 million cubic metres of natural gas production per day.

Pezeshkian, however, maintained that coordinated governance and regional cooperation had helped Iran manage the crisis despite continued military pressure.

Violence Continues Across the Region

The broader regional conflict showed little sign of easing.

In occupied Jerusalem, Hamas condemned Israeli military operations targeting towns and refugee camps, including the Qalandiya refugee camp, accusing Israel of escalating violence against Palestinians.

Meanwhile, Israel confirmed that two Israeli soldiers were killed in an explosion in southern Lebanon, marking the first Israeli military fatalities since a ceasefire with Hezbollah came into effect.

Israeli authorities said operations in southern Lebanon have continued despite the fragile truce.

Saudi Arabia, France Discuss Regional Security

Regional diplomatic activity also intensified as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and French President Emmanuel Macron held discussions on Middle East security and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.

According to Saudi state media, the leaders reviewed regional stability and ongoing efforts to protect maritime routes following attacks linked to Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi movement.

Oil Prices Rise on Strait of Hormuz Concerns

Global oil markets reacted to the continued uncertainty, with Brent crude rising to around $83.48 per barrel after reports of Iranian military activity targeting what Tehran described as "hostile targets" near the Strait of Hormuz.

The strategic waterway remains one of the world's most important energy shipping routes, and any disruption has the potential to impact global crude supplies.

Reports also suggested Iran is exploring diplomatic efforts through Oman to ease maritime tensions in the region.

Conflict Continues to Shape Global Outlook

Although President Trump has indicated that the conflict could conclude in the near future, military operations, diplomatic engagements and energy market volatility continue to reflect the fragile security situation across West Asia.

Analysts say developments in the coming days—including any progress in negotiations or further escalation on the ground—will be closely watched by governments and financial markets worldwide.