ISLAMABAD: Speculation is mounting over the potential formation of a robustdefense bloc among Muslim-majority nations, often referred to as a “MuslimNATO,” with Pakistan’s formidable ballistic missile capabilities andnuclear deterrent serving as its strategic backbone. Recent developmentsindicate that Turkey is engaged in advanced negotiations to join theexisting mutual defense framework between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan,raising questions about shifting alliances in the Middle East and SouthAsia. This evolving pact, rooted in a bilateral agreement signed inSeptember 2025, introduces a collective defense clause that treatsaggression against one member as an attack on all, mirroring NATO’s Article5. As regional tensions persist, including concerns over Iran and broadergeopolitical uncertainties, the inclusion of Turkey could transforminformal historical cooperation into a formalized security architecturecapable of deterring external threats.
The foundation of this prospective alliance traces back to the StrategicMutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) inked between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan onSeptember 17, 2025, in Riyadh. Signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed binSalman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the pact formalizeddecades of military ties, encompassing training, advisory support, andjoint exercises. What sets this agreement apart from prior collaborationsis its explicit collective defense provision, which analysts view as aresponse to evolving threats in a multipolar world. Pakistan, as the solenuclear-armed Muslim nation, brings unparalleled deterrence, includingadvanced ballistic missiles such as the Shaheen series with rangesexceeding 2,000 kilometers, complementing Saudi Arabia’s financialresources and regional influence.
Turkey’s reported interest in acceding to this framework marks asignificant escalation in the talks. According to sources familiar with thematter, negotiations have reached an advanced stage, with a high likelihoodof eventual agreement. Ankara would contribute its battle-hardened militaryexperience from operations in Syria, Libya, and elsewhere, alongside athriving defense industry producing advanced drones like the Bayraktarseries and potential involvement in next-generation fighter programs. Thiscomplementary strength—Saudi economic power, Pakistani nuclear and missileassets, and Turkish operational expertise—could create a potent trilateralbloc, enhancing interoperability in counterterrorism, intelligence sharing,and maritime security across overlapping regions.
What distinguishes the current discussions from the long-standing defensecooperation among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey is the deliberate pushto institutionalize relations under a binding mutual defense umbrella.Historical ties have included arms transfers, joint training, and economicaid, but lacked a formal commitment to collective security. The SMDA’sexpansion would address this gap, potentially reducing reliance on Westernalliances amid uncertainties in U.S. commitments, particularly undershifting administrations. Analysts highlight that shared strategicanxieties—ranging from Iran’s regional activities to broaderinstability—have driven this convergence, positioning the pact as adefensive mechanism rather than an aggressive one.
Pakistan’s military capabilities remain central to the alliance’s perceivedstrength. With an estimated arsenal of around 170 nuclear warheads and adiverse missile inventory, including cruise and ballistic systems,Islamabad provides a credible deterrent that extends beyond South Asia.Saudi Arabia has long benefited from this through training programs andrumored understandings on extended deterrence, though officials emphasizethe pact’s conventional focus. Turkey’s addition could further amplify thisthrough technology transfers and joint production, fostering greaterself-reliance in defense manufacturing among the members.
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The prospect of a formalized “Muslim NATO” has sparked debate on itsimplications for regional stability. While proponents argue it promotescollective security in a volatile environment, skeptics caution aboutpotential strains on existing alliances, including Turkey’s NATOmembership. No official accession text has been released, and details onobligations remain unclear, but the talks underscore a broader trend towarddiversified partnerships. As deliberations continue, the outcome couldredefine power dynamics from the Gulf to South Asia.
Source:https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-883716
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