CNA Explains: What is the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement?

Türkiye is looking to expand its Mecca Joint Defence Agreement with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reportedly floated Egypt's possible accession, adding that the security pact is open to more members in the future. The accord, which observers have called 'Islamic NATO', includes a mutual defence clause similar to Article 5, which states that an attack on a member will be regarded as an attack on all. Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan form a sizable bloc, with nearly 1.4 million active personnel, thousands of military equipment and assets, and a combined defence budget that exceeds US$120 billion.