Islamic NATO: Pakistan Stresses Unity in Muslim World, Signals Expansion of Saudi Defense Deal

Islamabad: Pakistan is once again signaling its intent to establish a NATO-style military alliance among Muslim-majority countries. Following last year’s defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, the idea of an “Islamic NATO” has gained momentum, with the potential inclusion of Turkey and other nations in the near future.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif emphasized the importance of Muslim world unity, stating that countries must collaborate to create a strong collective security framework. Speaking on Monday, he highlighted the threat posed by Israel and underlined the need for a unified military structure to prevent individual Muslim countries from being strategically weakened or isolated.

Asif indicated that the Pakistan-Saudi defense agreement could be expanded to include other countries. Any new entrants would be decided jointly by Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, with Turkey and additional nations likely candidates if all parties agree.

Earlier, another Pakistani minister, Raja Hayat Hiraj, had also commented on the possibility of an Islamic NATO. He noted that after a year of negotiations, a draft agreement had been prepared, with Turkey’s participation almost confirmed.

Background: Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement

Last year, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA), modeled in part on NATO’s collective defense principles, wherein an attack on one country is considered an attack on both. The inclusion of Turkey would extend this framework, binding all three countries under a NATO-like mutual defense clause.

Analysts note that such an alliance could evolve into a formidable military and economic bloc, drawing global attention. The proposed cooperation among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey marks a significant strategic development in the Muslim world, potentially reshaping regional security dynamics.