Erdogan hails Makkah Defence Pact as key message to Islamic World

ANKARA: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has described the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye as an important message to the Islamic world, saying its positive impact could become more visible in the future.

Speaking at a youth programme in Samsun province, Erdogan said the three countries had taken a significant step by joining hands under the defence agreement. He added that positive developments were continuing and expressed hope that the pact would contribute to greater cooperation among Muslim countries.

The Turkish president emphasised that Türkiye wanted to play an active role in helping the Islamic world overcome its growing challenges. He said efforts would continue to address regional crises and promote stability in areas affected by conflict and political uncertainty.

Erdogan voices concern over Strait of Hormuz

During his address, Erdogan also expressed concern over the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway that plays a major role in global energy supplies.

He said Türkiye was closely monitoring developments in the region, warning that the challenges were not limited to the Strait of Hormuz alone.

“Serious difficulties” were also being experienced in several parts of the Gulf, Erdogan said, highlighting the broader security concerns facing the region.

His remarks come amid heightened regional tensions, increasing concerns over maritime security and growing calls for diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.

What does the Makkah defence pact mean?

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement in August. Under the agreement, an armed attack against one member is to be treated as an attack against all three countries, reflecting a commitment to collective defence.

The pact has attracted increased attention because of the tense regional security environment and concerns over potential threats to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states.

Türkiye has maintained that the alliance is not directed against any specific country. Instead, it is intended to strengthen regional peace, stability and cooperation in defence and security matters.

The agreement also reportedly leaves room for other friendly countries to join in the future, potentially expanding its role as a platform for security cooperation within the wider Islamic world.

Erdogan’s latest comments underline Ankara’s view that the pact could become more than a military arrangement. By bringing together three influential Muslim-majority countries, the agreement could also serve as a framework for closer strategic coordination and collective responses to emerging regional challenges.

However, its long-term significance will depend on how the member states implement their commitments and respond to future security developments.