Another Middle Eastern Nation May Join the Mecca Pact

Syria is currently considering joining a defense alliance comprising Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, with discussions regarding the move underway, according to Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani. Speaking at the Manama Dialogue in Bahrain on Saturday, October 31, he stated, ‘Discussions are currently underway to evaluate Syria’s inclusion in the Mecca Alliance.’ Last August, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan formed the defense pact in the holy city of Mecca.

Under the agreement, an attack on any member state will be considered an attack on all member states. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is seeking to bolster regional support in the face of attacks by Yemeni Houthi rebels. Reports noted that following a major Houthi attack this month, Riyadh’s international airport had to be closed for two weeks. On Friday, the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen claimed that several drones sent by the Houthis were intercepted over the skies of the Mecca and Medina regions. However, the Houthis have denied involvement in these attacks.

International support for Saudi Arabia in countering Houthi attacks is also increasing. Earlier this month, French President Emmanuel Macron paid a surprise visit to Riyadh, during which he announced the deployment of French troops to protect a vital Saudi oil facility from Houthi attacks. Additionally, in October, the United Kingdom announced the deployment of fighter jets to assist Saudi Arabia in countering Houthi attacks.

Source: Middle East Eye