Syria Considers Joining Defense Pact with Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan

In depth

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani said at a conference in Bahrain that discussions are underway to assess Syria's entry into the Mecca Pact, the defense pact of Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan. According to Israel Hayom, Saudi Arabia is a central supporter of the government in Damascus.

According to Arutz Sheva, al-Shibani said that Syria sees the defense of the Arab Gulf states as an essential component of its national security, and will stand alongside all Gulf states. He added that the countries face threats from "cross-border militias."

According to Maariv, the Mecca Pact obligates member states to assist one another in the event of an attack. If Syria joins, an Israeli strike on Syrian territory or the passage of fighter jets could lead to a regional crisis.