Kathmandu— Iran has refuted claims that it received an invitation to join the Mecca defense pact – a trilateral alliance between Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Pakistan – while acknowledging ongoing proposals for broader discussions on regional security with the three nations. The clarification came after a report from Iran’s Khaneh Mellat news agency suggested Tehran was considering membership in the pact, which aims to foster military coordination and collective defense. Iranian officials maintain no formal invitation has been extended, but dialogue regarding wider security concerns is under review.

Pact Formation and Expansion

The Mecca Joint Defense Agreement was signed on August 7, uniting Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan in a pact that stipulates an attack on one member would be considered an attack on all. The agreement also promotes increased military cooperation, joint exercises, and collaboration within the defense industry. Founding members have previously indicated openness to expanding the alliance to include other regional states, with Egypt publicly mentioned as a potential candidate and Pakistan stating it would not object to Iran’s inclusion.

Conflicting Reports and Iranian Response

Initial reports from Mehdi Rahimi, head of the Iranian parliament’s Khaneh Mellat news agency, indicated that Tehran had received an invitation to join the Mecca pact and was evaluating it. However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei swiftly rejected this claim on Monday, stating no formal invitation had been received. Baghaei did confirm proposals for discussions with Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Pakistan concerning broader regional security arrangements are currently being considered.

Regional Implications and Concerns

The formation of the Mecca pact has drawn varied reactions from regional actors. Some observers have likened the grouping to an “Islamic NATO,” though experts caution against characterizing it as a fully developed military bloc. Abdulaziz Sager, chairman of the Gulf Research Center, believes the pact could bolster the combined diplomatic and defense capabilities of its members and foster a more regionally-driven security system. Israel has expressed alarm over the alliance, fearing it may emerge as a counterweight to its regional military dominance.

Defensive Intentions

Members of the Mecca pact have consistently emphasized that the agreement is purely defensive in nature and open to other countries within the region. They maintain the alliance is not directed against any specific state and aims to enhance collective security through cooperation.

Discussions regarding regional security between Iran and the members of the Mecca pact remain ongoing, though Tehran has denied receiving a formal invitation to join the alliance at this time.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.