Mecca Joint Defence Agreement text reveals mutual defence clause binding Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye

Key facts

• The full text of the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, was published by UK-based digital news website Middle East Eye, which reported that Turkiye has submitted the pact to its Parliament for ratification.
• The pact, signed in August 2026, establishes a defence alliance similar to Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, under which an armed attack against one member state is considered an attack against all member states.
• The 16-article agreement commits the three countries to mutual military assistance and cooperation in intelligence, defence production, logistics and counter-terrorism.
• Article 9 provides for intelligence-sharing through mutually agreed secure channels, while Article 10 provides for logistical support including weapons, ammunition, fuel and spare parts during peacetime, war and emergencies.
• Article 13 restricts disclosure of classified information obtained under the agreement to any state, company or individual outside the three signatories.
• The agreement remains in force indefinitely once ratification is completed, but a member cannot withdraw during the first 10 years; thereafter withdrawal requires written diplomatic notification at least three months in advance.
• The agreement invokes Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, recognising the inherent right of individual and collective self-defence.