Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye are intensifying their military and intelligence cooperation in response to increasing attacks by Yemen’s Houthi forces targeting Saudi Arabia. This decision follows a meeting in Riyadh where the chiefs of staff from the three nations discussed strategies to bolster Saudi defense under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, signed in August.
The military leaders examined the regional security landscape and agreed on enhancing the integration of their defensive capabilities. They also reaffirmed their commitment to a collective defense strategy to safeguard Saudi Arabia’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The discussions are particularly pertinent amid a rise in Houthi attacks on Saudi-associated interests and infrastructure, as well as on shipping routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which have raised broader regional security concerns.
In addition to the trilateral talks, Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman held a separate meeting with Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir. They discussed the recent Houthi offensives against Saudi Arabia and explored ways to strengthen joint defense measures between the two countries.
The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement stipulates that an armed attack against any of the three signatory countries is to be regarded as an attack on all, mandating a coordinated response. The agreement also calls for expanded defense cooperation and a stronger collective deterrence framework.
This latest meeting marks a significant step for Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye in operationalizing their defense pact into concrete military and security cooperation, aligning their efforts to address shared regional threats.