Amid escalating attacks by Yemen’s Houthi forces, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye have agreed to enhance their military and intelligence cooperation. The decision was reached after a meeting of the chiefs of staff of the three countries’ armed forces in Riyadh, where they discussed measures to bolster Saudi Arabia’s defense and improve coordination under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement.
The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, signed in August, stipulates that an armed attack against any of the three countries is to be treated as an attack against all. The agreement calls for expanded defense cooperation and stronger collective deterrence. During the recent talks, the military officials reviewed the regional security situation and affirmed their commitment to collective defense and the protection of Saudi Arabia’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
These discussions come in the wake of increased Houthi attacks targeting Saudi-linked interests and infrastructure. The group has also conducted attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which has raised broader regional security concerns. As part of the strengthened cooperation, Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman held separate talks with Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir to discuss the recent attacks and efforts to fortify joint defense measures.
The meeting marks a significant step for Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye in putting the defense agreement into action through practical military and security collaboration. The enhanced cooperation aims to better integrate the countries’ defensive capabilities and respond more effectively to threats against their shared interests.