Trump hails Makkah Defence Pact as a “big, bold” step

US President Donald Trump has welcomed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan.

President Trump called the agreement “big, bold and important first step” toward greater regional security.

In a Truth Social post, Trump said he was “very happy” to see the three countries sign the pact. 

He further said that it showed “how the Middle East is coming together” and would enable countries to defend themselves more effectively. 

The agreement, signed in Makkah on August 7, commits the three states to regard an armed attack on one as an attack on all, while expanding military and defence cooperation.

The pact comes as tensions continue across the Middle East, particularly involving Iran, Israel and Lebanon. 

Reuters reported that the agreement reflects growing efforts by regional powers to develop independent security arrangements amid continuing instability.