A regional defense agreement signed just weeks ago between Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, dubbed by some observers as a "Middle East NATO", may face its first real-world test. As Saudi Arabia confronts renewed hostilities with Houthi rebels in Yemen, Riyadh has formally requested military assistance from its treaty partners under the mutual defense provisions of what's known as the "Mecca Agreement."
Pakistan's defense minister confirmed recently that his government is giving serious consideration to the Saudi request. The development comes as forces loyal to Yemen's internationally recognized government, backed by Saudi support, have launched a major offensive against Houthi-controlled territory in recent days. The campaign has succeeded in recapturing several towns and districts from rebel control.
The Houthis have responded with heavy bombardment of Saudi infrastructure and facilities across the border. According to the Pakistani defense minister, discussions are underway between the parties to coordinate logistics and operational planning. Pakistani warplanes could begin conducting strikes in Yemen within days if the government decides to activate the mutual defense clause of the agreement.
