Syria considers joining Mecca defence pact

Syria is considering joining the Mecca Defence Pact formed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said on Saturday (October 31).

Speaking at the Manama Dialogue in Bahrain, he said discussions were underway to assess Syria’s membership.

The pact, signed on August 7, treats an armed attack on any member as an attack on all, allowing other members to come to its defence.

Al-Shaibani condemned attacks on Gulf countries, particularly missile and drone strikes, and said Syria would not allow its territory to be used to threaten neighbouring countries.

Saudi Arabia seeks support against Houthi attacks

Amid increasing Houthi attacks, Saudi Arabia is seeking international support. Earlier this month, a deadly attack forced Riyadh's international airport to close for two weeks.

Pakistan has pledged necessary assistance to defend Saudi Arabia, while its military spokesperson said the Mecca pact is purely defensive and allows new members to join with the approval of its three founding countries.

France has deployed troops to protect a key Saudi oil facility, while the UK has announced plans to send fighter jets to help counter Houthi attacks.

Source: Dawn