Donald Trump welcomes defense pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan

US President Donald Trump on Sunday touted the defense pact inked earlier this month by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan. Writing on Truth Social, Trump called the agreement a “BIG, BOLD, IMPORTANT FIRST STEP,” adding that it shows how the Middle East is coming together and how countries will finally be able to defend themselves in a more meaningful way. The three-way agreement, signed on August 7, comes as the US-Israel war with Iran, which began in late February, has spread across the Middle East, disrupting regional security architecture. Pakistan’s foreign ministry stated that the pact implies an attack on any member would be regarded as an attack on all, aimed at strengthening collective deterrence. The agreement also declares a shared commitment to promoting regional security and stability, as well as participating in efforts to resolve the conflict between Iran and the United States. However, some analysts have downplayed the significance of the deal, noting that it is unlikely any of the participants would militarily intervene on behalf of another if it came under attack.