Islamabad: The signing of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye represents a significant development in regional security, establishing a collective defence mechanism aimed at bolstering deterrence and stability. Sardar Masood Khan, former Ambassador of Pakistan and ex-President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, emphasized the pact’s defensive nature and its role in enhancing protection against aggression.

According to President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Sardar Masood Khan, the pact is a culmination of decades-long aspirations among Muslim countries for a unified defence strategy. The urgency for such a mechanism grew following an attack on Palestinian negotiators in Doha, highlighting vulnerabilities that prompted a collective response. The agreement, initially formed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, expanded with Türkiye’s inclusion, with Egypt also showing interest.

Khan noted that the Makkah Pact is not designed to alter the existing power dynamics or target specific nations but rather to ensure collective security among its members. While drawing parallels with NATO, he pointed out that the Makkah Pact, though smaller, possesses significant defence capabilities and economic ties. Unlike NATO’s potential for offensive operations, the Makkah Pact remains strictly defensive.

The agreement emerges amid regional instability, including tensions in Gaza, the Palestinian territories, and the Persian Gulf. Khan highlighted the potential for the pact’s expansion to include Egypt, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, which could enhance its regional influence. He also stressed the importance of diplomacy and peaceful conflict resolution, clarifying that the pact does not aim to initiate an arms race but to reinforce deterrence and peace efforts.