In a new analysis, The Zioneer assesses that Saudi Arabia's ambition for regional preeminence is being pursued through strategic alliances with Turkey and Pakistan, though their geographic distance from the Middle East core limits their influence. The analysis notes this 'post-American' alignment challenges Israel's regional strategy.
The Zioneer published a new analysis Monday assessing that the emerging post-American Middle East is defined by Saudi Arabia's pursuit of regional preeminence through alliances with Turkey and Pakistan. The analysis notes that despite the geographic distance of these two non-Arab powers from the core Middle East, their military and economic capabilities position them as key partners for Riyadh.
The analysis aligns with The Zioneer's ongoing coverage of the tripartite defense pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan in Mecca earlier this month. As The Zioneer reported on August 9, an analyst noted that Egypt has expressed interest in joining the pact, with additional countries on the list. The current analysis frames these developments as part of a broader shift away from the U.S.-led security architecture in the region.
For Israel, the growing Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan axis presents a complex strategic picture. While the alliance is primarily directed against Iranian influence, the involvement of Turkey—which has maintained a hostile stance toward Israeli security operations—and nuclear-armed Pakistan, which has mediated between the U.S. and Iran, raises questions about the long-term impact on Israeli diplomatic and security interests. The analysis suggests that the influence of this bloc on the broader Middle East will be limited by the geographic and political distance of its key members from the core Arab-Israeli arena.
- DevelopingPakistan-Saudi rapprochement challenges Israel's regional strategy, analysis says
- DevelopingAnalysis: Muslim defense pact Israel can't ignore raises questions on regional partnerships
- DevelopingAnalysis: Trump's regional gestures — nuclear deal for Saudi Arabia, jets for Turkey, focus on Iran — bypass Israel
- StrongAnalyst: Egypt interested in joining Turkey-Saudi-Pakistan defense pact, more countries on list
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