Mecca Defence Pact Members Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Hold Security Talks With Iran in Tehran
Members of the Mecca Defence Pact, Türkiye, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, held four-way security talks with Iran in Tehran on October 26. In a joint statement the four countries agreed to continue contacts. It was the alliance’s first four-way contact with Iran.
Who Took Part
Türkiye was represented by National Intelligence Organisation (MİT) head İbrahim Kalın, Saudi Arabia by Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman and Pakistan by Field Marshal Asim Munir, the army chief. Iran’s side included President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei.
The Agenda
According to Anadolu Agency, the talks covered regional security, Israel’s activities in the region and developments in Palestine and Lebanon. Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and the Strait of Hormuz were also on the agenda. A senior Pakistani security official told Reuters that a regional non-aggression network was discussed.
Background
The meeting was held on Pakistan’s initiative. Formed in August between Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, the Mecca Defence Pact had its first four-way contact with Iran as Houthi attacks were rising. We covered the pact’s parliamentary process in an earlier report.
Uncertainties
It is unclear whether the talks produced concrete results or when the next round will be. Some reports say Pezeshkian is ready to join the pact, but that appears in only one source and is unconfirmed.
