More than six nations keen on joining Makkah defence pact: DPM Dar

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar announced that over six nations are interested in joining the Makkah Defence Alliance. The pact, which functions similarly to NATO's Article 5, aims to provide collective security for member states including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye.
Why it matters
The expansion of this military alliance signals a significant shift in Middle Eastern security dynamics and Pakistan's growing role in regional defense pacts.
Home latest pakistan world sports showbiz entertainment Royal business health Sci-Tech Food Fact Check Sci-Tech Videos shows Watch LIVE TV X Home Latest Pakistan World Sports Showbiz Fact Check Sci-Tech Videos Shows LIVE TV --> Pakistan More than six nations keen on joining Makkah defence pact: DPM Dar Dar says "bound" to defend Saudi Arabia, notes UN Charter allows such alliances to take action By Web Desk | Published October 02, 2026
Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday confirmed that more than six countries had expressed interest in joining the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, DPM Dar reiterated that the pact is defensive in nature and not intended for offensive purposes.
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye signed the "Makkah Joint Defence Agreement" on August 7, weeks before Yemen's Houthis launched attacks against Saudi Arabia.
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