“We went through a tense period between the United States and Iran, and you saw what happened. The conclusion of our own agreement sends an important message to the entire world.” Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of Turkey
The trilateral defense pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan—which provides for collective defense in the event of an attack—is at the center of global attention.
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In fact, this partnership has drawn comparisons to NATO, whose members assume a similar commitment under Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty.
The Role of the U.S.
Many analysts believe that the agreement reflects an effort by regional powers to assume a greater role in the region’s security, without relying exclusively on the United States.
However, Donald Trump welcomed the agreement, without appearing particularly concerned about developments in the Middle East.
“The agreement shows that the Middle East is uniting. The countries in the region will now be able to defend themselves in a more meaningful way.” Donald Trump, U.S. President
Of course, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan himself—during his interview with Al Jazeera—hinted that Turkey is not pleased with the United States’ support for Israel.
“President Erdogan also expressed Turkey’s deep concern over the ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon. He stated that he had raised the issue of ending the war in Lebanon during U.S. President Trump’s visit to Ankara.” HABER TURK TV
Eastern Mediterranean
As for Turkey, the agreement expands its role in the security of the broader Middle East, while creating new opportunities for defense equipment exports, technology transfer, and joint weapons production.
On our side, however, the focus for Athens and Nicosia is primarily on whether the strengthened cooperation between Ankara, Riyadh, and Islamabad will translate into closer military or diplomatic coordination on issues in the Eastern Mediterranean.
This comes amid a public statement by Recep Tayyip Erdoğan that there is a possibility of Egypt’s future participation in this alliance.
“Could Egypt join? There is discussion on this issue. Egypt, if it so desires, may join in the future to expand the agreement among the three countries. The doors are open to Egypt.” Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of Turkey
The Presidential Office was asked to comment on this statement, and Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letympiotis stating on state radio that the Republic of Cyprus is closely monitoring developments, while noting that bilateral cooperation between Cyprus and Egypt is at an all-time high.
Watch the report by Giorgos Chrysanthos
