Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia plan defence pact as US-Iran row threatens Middle East

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Tom HussainJanuary 16, 2026 at 08:27 AM

AI Summary

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Amid rising US-Iran tensions, Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia are planning a tripartite defense partnership. Pakistan's defense production minister revealed the plan, stating it is separate from Pakistan and Saudi Arabia's existing mutual defense agreement. Turkey's foreign minister confirmed negotiations have been underway since early last year, aiming to create a shared platform for regional nations to resolve issues with mutual assurance. The proposed agreement comes as Iran's neighbors await clarity on US tariffs, which threaten to disrupt regional supply chains. While the details remain under negotiation, the partnership aims to enhance regional security cooperation.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Ankara 30% Reuters 30% Islamic Republic 40% Raza Hayat Harraj 50% Donald Trump 60% Hakan Fidan ×260% United States ×270% Saudi Arabia ×270% Iran ×380% Pakistan ×380% Turkey ×390% Middle East ×290%

Keywords

defence pact 90% middle east 80% us-iran tensions 80% saudi arabia 70% turkey 70% pakistan 70% regional security 60% military powers 50% trade tariffs 40%