Amidst Iran war, Pakistan moves to form 'Islamic NATO'; key meeting of Muslim nations held in Saudi Arabia

Riyadh: Amidst the ongoing confrontation between the US, Israel, and Iran, stirrings have begun among Islamic nations regarding the formation of a military alliance modeled after NATO. Last Thursday, the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt met in Riyadh to discuss ways to unite Islamic powers. This meeting took place on the sidelines of a summit of Islamic nations. 

Did Turkey Seek to Join Defence Pact?

For the past year, Turkey has been actively seeking to forge a security agreement with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Earlier this year, Pakistan's Foreign Minister stated that such an agreement has been under consideration for approximately a year. Turkish sources familiar with the matter told 'Middle East Eye' that Ankara is also attempting to include Egypt in this pact.

However, sources noted that the guarantees and commitments associated with this agreement would not mirror those of NATO; rather, it would function as a security forum. This arrangement would facilitate greater cooperation within the defense industry and across broader defense-related matters.