Amid escalating attacks by Yemen’s Houthi forces, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye have agreed to strengthen their military and intelligence cooperation. The decision was made during a meeting of the chiefs of staff of the three nations’ armed forces in Riyadh, focusing on bolstering defense strategies under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed in August.
The military officials reviewed the current regional security landscape and committed to enhancing the integration of their defensive capabilities. They emphasized the importance of collective defense to safeguard Saudi Arabia’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. This move comes as Houthi attacks increasingly target Saudi-linked interests and infrastructure, with further threats to shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, raising broader regional security concerns.
Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman also held talks with Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, to discuss the recent Houthi aggression and explore further measures to reinforce joint defense operations. The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement stipulates that an armed attack on any of the three countries should be treated as an attack on all, calling for expanded defense cooperation and a stronger collective deterrence.
The latest discussions in Riyadh signify a concrete step by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye to operationalize the defense agreement into practical military and security collaboration. By reinforcing their alliance, the three countries aim to address the ongoing threats and ensure stability in the region.