Saudi Crown Prince Says Makkah Defence Pact Aims to Strengthen Regional Stability
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has said the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye is aimed at strengthening regional security and stability.
The crown prince made the remarks while delivering the annual royal address on behalf of King Salman at the opening of the new session of Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council. He said the three countries established the defence partnership to coordinate efforts and help protect the region from the effects of tensions and conflicts.
Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement in August 2026. The agreement provides a framework for greater defence cooperation among the three countries and states that an armed attack against one member would be treated as an attack against all three.
Focus on Regional Security
Mohammed bin Salman said Saudi Arabia was continuing to work with its Gulf partners to strengthen security cooperation and protect regional stability.
He also said the Kingdom would continue efforts aimed at reducing tensions and supporting diplomatic solutions while maintaining measures to protect its security.
The crown prince added that Saudi Arabia had the capabilities needed to respond to threats and said the country would respond to attacks directed against its security.
Maritime Security
The Saudi leader also highlighted plans for a multinational defensive maritime coalition.
According to his remarks, the proposed coalition is intended to strengthen maritime security and protect shared interests in international waterways. He also opposed the use of international waterways as a means of applying political or economic pressure.
Concerns Over Energy Security
Mohammed bin Salman also spoke about global energy supplies, warning that the world was facing an energy crisis with potentially wider consequences.
He said Saudi Arabia had continued supplying oil to international markets despite rising regional tensions and highlighted the Kingdom’s role in supporting global energy security.
Saudi Position on Palestine
The crown prince also addressed the situation in Palestine, condemning Israeli military actions in Gaza and what he described as repeated violations concerning Al-Aqsa Mosque.
He called on the international community and the Peace Council to support efforts toward a lasting political settlement.
Saudi Arabia, he said, remains committed to Palestinian rights, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in line with relevant international resolutions.
Yemen and Sudan
On Yemen, Mohammed bin Salman reiterated Saudi Arabia’s support for efforts to restore government authority and stability while addressing attacks by the Houthis.
He also reaffirmed Saudi support for Sudan’s unity, state institutions and stability, calling for efforts to reduce the suffering caused by the ongoing conflict.
The latest remarks come as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye continue developing the institutions and defence cooperation mechanisms established under the Makkah agreement. The three countries have already held senior-level meetings to strengthen coordination under the pact.
