ISRAEL ALARMED: Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan Defense Pact Raises Fears Of Emerging Anti-Israel Alliance

Israeli officials have expressed growing alarm over a defense agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, viewing it as a potential alliance directed against Israel. Concerns have also been raised that Egypt could eventually join the bloc.

The pact, signed in Mecca, prompted a senior Israeli official to state: "This agreement troubles us. This is an alliance aimed against Israel." Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said the agreement is modeled on NATO's Article 5, under which an attack on one member is considered an attack on all. The alliance will include a ministerial committee and a general secretariat based in Saudi Arabia.

The senior Israeli official characterized the agreement as reflecting a broader regional realignment. "The Shiite axis has weakened, and for a long time we have seen the Sunni axis getting stronger," The official said. In response, the official noted Israel's need to strengthen relationships with Greece, Cyprus, India, and the United Arab Emirates, adding that "Israel needs a massive force-building program."

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Egypt were identified as particular concerns. "The story of Turkey and Erdogan is dangerous," The official said, and warned: "We would not be surprised if the Egyptians join the 'Mecca Alliance.' This alliance is aimed against Israel. Who do you think they are doing this against? Allow me to be skeptical when they say it is really aimed at Iran."

The Mecca Joint Defense Agreement was signed during a meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Erdogan, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, following nearly a year of negotiations. Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif directly referenced Israel in remarks following the signing, saying: "Israel poses a threat to all of us. Islamic countries must adopt a coordinated approach to confront this threat," And called on the Muslim world to "unite to confront the common threat posed by Israel."