The Hidden Dimensions of the “Mecca Defense Pact”: A Strategic Alliance or a Maneuver to Conceal Domestic Crises?

An Interview with Muhammad Hussain Baqeri , Director of the Iqbal forum , on Ofogh TV

An expert analysis of the trilateral defense pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye, shedding new light on the objectives behind the agreement. Although it has ostensibly been presented under the banner of an “Islamic NATO” and as an alternative to CENTCOM’s ineffective security umbrella, Mr. Baqeri argues that, rather than constituting a unified defense force against common threats, the pact reflects a combination of Türkiye’s ambition to market its defense products, Riyadh’s attempt to reduce its absolute dependence on the United States, and Islamabad’s effort—amid severe domestic crises—to repay Saudi Arabia for its financial assistance.