Three Middle Eastern countries launch collective deterrence mechanism

Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan have agreed to immediately proceed to the practical implementation of collective defense obligations under the Mecca Defense Alliance created this summer. The decision provides for preparation for the rapid deployment of agreed military forces and capabilities on the territory of Saudi Arabia.

This is stated in a joint statement by the three countries, published after an emergency meeting of the alliance's strategic political and defense committee on October 5 in Riyadh.

The meeting was convened against the backdrop of new threats to Saudi Arabia and missile and drone attacks by the Houthis from Yemen. The participants condemned attempts to attack Mecca and Medina, as well as the ongoing strikes on Saudi cities, civilian and economic facilities.

The committee resolved to "immediately proceed to the practical implementation" of collective defense obligations. To this end, the countries must provide previously agreed armed forces and military capabilities and ensure the possibility of their rapid deployment in Saudi Arabia.

The specific number of troops, types of weapons and timing of their transfer are not disclosed in the joint statement. Implementation of the decisions is to take place in accordance with previously approved agreements and the legislation of each of the three countries.

Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman said that the parties are effectively activating a "collective deterrence" mechanism in response to attacks against the kingdom and its holy sites.

The countries stressed that the security of each alliance member is considered part of the common security of all three states. The purpose of the deployment of forces is stated as increasing combat readiness, deepening military integration and creating a joint capability to counter threats.

The Mecca Agreement on joint defense was signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan on August 7. It provides for mutual military support and the formation of a collective deterrence mechanism.

At the October 5 meeting, the countries also took a step toward creating a permanent alliance structure. Retired Pakistani Lieutenant General Nauman Mahmood was appointed the organization's first secretary general for a three-year term.

The decision was made against the backdrop of a new escalation of the war in Yemen. Forces of the internationally recognized government supported by Saudi Arabia have launched a large-scale offensive against the Houthis, seeking to recapture territories near the Red Sea and the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

According to Al Arabiya, the current decision was the first transition of the trilateral defense agreement from political commitments to practical measures of collective protection.

Based on materials from: Pakistan's Foreign Ministry, Saudi Press Agency, Al Arabiya