RIYADH – On Monday, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey agreed to activate the collective‑defence provisions of the Makkah Defense Alliance, committing to the rapid deployment of forces and military assets to the Kingdom amid persisting threats.
The announcement came after an emergency session of the alliance’s Political and Defense Strategic Committee held in Riyadh to assess recent security developments and threats to Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman stated that the meeting highlighted the three nations’ solidarity and unified stance in confronting attacks against the Kingdom and its holy sites.
He posted on X, saying the emergency meeting of the alliance’s Strategic Political and Defense Committee affirmed the solidarity and unified stance of the three nations in confronting the sinful aggressions aimed at the Kingdom and its holy sanctuaries, activating collective deterrence against the aggressors and their backers within the Makkah Defense Alliance framework.
The three nations said the step is intended to boost military readiness, deepen integration, and strengthen their collective capacity to confront and counter threats.
The committee reviewed the results of political and military consultations held prior to the meeting and endorsed recommendations that reaffirm the alliance’s commitment to collective defense and a unified response to threats.
The agreement stipulates that the required forces and military capabilities shall be made available and rapidly deployed in Saudi Arabia, in line with approved arrangements and the national legislation of each member state.
The member states also condemned an attempt to strike Makkah and Madinah, as well as ongoing attacks aimed at cities, civilian facilities and economic installations across Saudi Arabia.
They reiterated their categorical rejection of any aggression or threat to the Kingdom’s security and territorial integrity.
Pakistan and Turkey praised the vigilance and readiness of the Saudi Armed Forces, as well as their professional performance and efficiency in confronting threats and safeguarding the Kingdom.
As part of efforts to build the alliance’s institutional framework, the committee appointed retired Lt. Gen. Numan Mahmud of Pakistan as its inaugural secretary‑general for a three‑year term.
The member states welcomed Mahmud’s appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to develop the alliance and advance its objectives.
The three countries reaffirmed that the security of each member state is an indivisible component of their collective security.
They added that turning the Makkah Agreement on Collective Defense into concrete actions would bolster deterrence, showcase the credibility of their collective‑defense pledges, and highlight their unity and resolve to defend their security, sovereignty and territorial integrity.