Could Mecca defence pact be first step to new Middle East order?

The Mecca security pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan establishes that an armed attack against one nation would be considered an attack against all three. However, the pact's primary message is directed at the United States, implying that American allies may not receive immunity from attack. The White House has not yet issued an official statement regarding the pact, which has raised questions about U.S. President Donald Trump's enthusiasm for the agreement.

The pact's complementary strengths of wealthy Saudi Arabia, Turkey's Eurasian ambitions, and Pakistan's nuclear capabilities have been noted. However, it is premature to assert that the Middle East is coming together. Both Turkey and Pakistan, despite their ambitions, are not strictly Middle Eastern countries. Major powers like the U.S. will likely retain a presence in the region, although the extent of their involvement is uncertain.

China has voiced cautious approval for the pact, viewing it as a locally led security framework that aligns with its push for regional powers to assume greater responsibility for stability. India and Turkey have expressed concerns over the pact, particularly given their historical support for Pakistan in the Kashmir issue. Overall, while the pact could be the first step towards a new Middle East order, the extent of this shift remains uncertain.