JNN, New Delhi | The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement to strengthen collective deterrence against any act of aggression was signed on Friday between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye. The agreement is being seen as a sign of the changing security dynamics in West Asia. Under the treaty, an attack on one member country will be considered an attack on all.
Growing distrust in Gulf countries over US security guarantees amid the ongoing conflict with Iran has paved the way for this agreement. According to experts, Pakistan could benefit from the agreement and may try to integrate other Arab countries, in addition to Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, into this security framework. Following the agreement, it could also attempt to exert two-way pressure on India.
Pakistan's Growing Strategic Role In West Asia: A Matter Of Concern For India?
Pakistan already has defence ties with Qatar and Kuwait, and these countries are also expected to join the tripartite agreement in the future. If this happens, Pakistan's strategic role in West Asia could increase, providing Pakistan with an opportunity to strengthen its regional diplomatic position, along with economic and defence cooperation. Security experts fear that Pakistan could use its growing strategic importance against India. The strengthening of new security alliances in West Asia could provide Pakistan with greater access to economic and military resources. There is also a fear that Pakistan may try to activate its role against India as well as Israel.
Pakistan Could Use The Trilateral Agreement As A Shield
Islamabad could use the trilateral agreement as a shield to promote terrorism in India and counter India's policies like surgical strikes. According to former Pakistani Brigadier Farooq Hameed, the condition that an attack on one member is considered an attack on all members could give Pakistan a diplomatic and strategic advantage in a potential future conflict with India.
Pakistan already does not recognise Israel and has been in support of an independent Palestinian state. Therefore, Turkiye and Pakistan's anti-Israel stance could impact regional security dynamics. However, for Pakistan to become active on any new front will also depend on its own economic and security capabilities.
How Iran Reacted To Trilateral Agreement In West Asia
Following the Mecca joint defence agreement, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged Muslim countries to reduce their dependence on foreign powers for their security. In a post on X, he praised the preparedness and capabilities of Iran's military and said that Muslim countries can face external challenges by uniting. Araghchi said that the time has come for Muslim countries to trust their own capabilities and strengthen the spirit of true brotherhood.
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