Mecca Defence Pact Takes Effect: Pakistan, Turkey Agree To Deploy Forces To Saudi Arabia

Islamabad: The Mecca Defense Alliance formed between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey is now moving towards implementation at the military level. Amid rising tensions between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthi rebels, the three countries have agreed to take steps towards rapid deployment of military forces and essential defense capabilities to Saudi Arabia.

What was decided in the emergency meeting of the three countries?

An emergency meeting of the Strategic Political and Defense Committee (SPDC) was held in Riyadh on Monday. In this, the security challenges facing Saudi Arabia and the regional situation were discussed. In a joint statement issued after the meeting, it was said that the three countries will take immediate steps towards implementing the commitments related to collective defense.
Along with this, it was also agreed to take necessary steps to ensure rapid deployment of agreed military forces and defense capabilities in Saudi Arabia.

How many troops will be sent to Saudi Arabia?

The joint statement did not specify the number of potential troops or any specific date for their deployment. The Houthis were not even named directly in the statement. However, this decision has come at a time when Saudi Arabia is reportedly facing Houthi attacks.

What will be the role of Pakistan Army?

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir attended the emergency meeting from Pakistan's side. Khawaja Asif said in a TV program that Pakistan and Turkish forces are playing a supporting role in the region, while Saudi forces are involved in military operations.

He also said that the assistance sought by Saudi Arabia is being provided and Pakistan's role also includes intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance. However, information about the number of troops or any specific operation has not been made public.

What did you say about the attempt to target Mecca-Medina?

All three countries condemned the attempts to target the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Apart from this, the targeting of Saudi Arabia's cities, civilian targets and economic establishments was also criticised.

Pakistan and Turkey appreciated the alertness and professionalism of Saudi security forces. Both countries supported Saudi Arabia's efforts to safeguard its security and territorial integrity.

How is the matter related to the military operation in Yemen?

The emergency meeting came as the Yemeni government, backed by the Saudi-led coalition, reportedly launched a major military operation to retake areas held by the Houthis. This has further increased the tension in the area.

In August, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey signed a trilateral defense agreement. Under this, an armed attack on any one of the three countries is considered an attack on all. Monday's meeting is being considered an important step towards implementing this collective defense system on the ground.