121 stories found
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasizes the need for an economic reset to support strategic gains, while former diplomats highlight how the regional alliance aims to safeguard sovereignty and promote peace.
Pakistan to head Makkah defense pact secretariat for first three years arabnews.com
The Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan held discussions with a Turkish minister to coordinate positions ahead of an upcoming committee meeting focused on the Makkah defense pact.
Senior officials from Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan have convened in Istanbul for the inaugural strategic committee meeting of the Mecca Joint Defense Pact. The gathering marks the first operational step in formalizing military cooperation among the three Sunni-majority nations.
The institution showcases a valuable ancient page from the Qur'an, drawing attention to Islamic calligraphy and historical preservation efforts.
Experts argue that the evolving security architecture around the Makkah Pact indicates a transition where US military presence is increasingly viewed as a regional liability rather than a guarantee of stability.
Indian officials warn that Delhi's detailed disclosure of the Makkah Pact carries significant security ramifications for the nation.
Bangladeshi officials indicated they would seriously consider membership in the newly formed Mecca defense alliance if formally invited. The foreign minister emphasized that participation would serve as a voluntary framework for regional security cooperation.
Dhaka is positively evaluating an invitation to join the Makkah military alliance, signaling a potential shift in its regional defense partnerships.
Bangladesh has stated that discussions are ongoing regarding its potential entry into the Makkah pact.
Bangladesh has indicated its openness to joining a defense pact involving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey, according to statements from its ministers.
The Makkah Pact and Ethiopia's strategic choices regarding the Red Sea are being navigated through corridor pluralism and strategic autonomy, influencing the shifting security order.
A viral video claiming Indian Prime Minister Modi warned Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu about a Makkah pact has been fact-checked and found to be doctored footage.
President Trump has ordered the Pentagon to scale back military exercises with South Korea, citing his good relationship with Kim Jong Un and calling the drills expensive and provocative.
A debate on the creation of new provinces is scheduled for the Pakistani parliament today, with both houses expected to pass a proposed unanimous resolution concerning the Makkah Peace Accord.
Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye signed the historic Makkah Joint Defence Agreement (MJDA) on August 7, 2026, aiming to strengthen collective deterrence against external armed aggression, with provisions for mutual defense.
The Makkah Agreement has been described as an extraordinary accord, particularly significant for Pakistan and broadly beneficial for the Global South.
Pakistan has engaged in extensive diplomatic outreach to assure Iran that the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, signed with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, poses no threat to Tehran.
Iran has downplayed concerns regarding the Makkah pact, stating that the accord reflects a regional reassessment of the US, while Dar briefed Araghchi on the agreement's objectives.
The iVerify Pakistan team investigated a viral video purportedly showing Shashi Tharoor lauding Pakistan's diplomatic influence after the Makkah pact signing and determined it to be false.
The Kuwaiti foreign minister congratulated Dar on the Makkah defence pact and exchanged views on the regional situation, including Occupied East Jerusalem.
The Turkish Foreign Minister stated that Egypt is likely to join the Makkah pact, which would include a committee of ministers similar to NATO.
A 43-year-old pilgrim from Niger, Alhaji Salisu Ibrahim, has been confirmed dead in Makkah following a road accident after completing the Hajj rites.
An article explores the concept of social status and its implications during the pilgrimage to Makkah.
The Deputy Emir of Makkah has announced the successful completion of the Hajj pilgrimage, marking a significant achievement in managing the annual religious event.
The sky above Makkah witnessed a rare, near-perfect solar alignment directly over the Holy Kaaba, drawing attention from observers and marking a celestial event.
A Hajj guests program in Makkah is facilitating the recall of academic memories and emotional reunions among participants.
An unprecedented heatwave swept across Europe, particularly affecting the UK, Ireland, France, and Spain, with temperatures reaching record highs for May. Numerous weather stations reported temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, breaking 80-year-old records in some areas.
The Saudi Ministry of Commerce announced that over 243 million essential goods have been supplied to pilgrims in Makkah, ensuring their needs are met during the pilgrimage.
As Eidul Azha approaches, residents of Gaza are mourning their inability to undertake the pilgrimage to Makkah (Haj) or perform animal sacrifices due to ongoing war and border closures. Many, like Najia Abu Lehia, lament the loss of loved ones before they could complete the pilgrimage.
Makkah's environment office is increasing inspections to prevent unauthorized animal slaughter in the lead-up to the Hajj pilgrimage. The measure aims to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain public health standards.
Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage have begun their journey from Madinah to Makkah. This includes the third batch of pilgrims from Kwara state departing for Saudi Arabia.
Morocco will officially launch the “Makkah Route” program at Rabat-Salé airport on Monday, May 4.
Authorities in Makkah have arrested a man for advertising and selling fake vouchers for Hajj sacrificial animals.
Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of Umrah visas and restricted entry to Makkah in preparation for Hajj 2026.
Actor Omer Shahzad has responded to public criticism concerning a video he shared from Makkah, stating that his intentions behind the post have been misunderstood.
Pilgrims in Makkah have received 2.3 million awareness services, indicating extensive support and guidance provided during their spiritual journey.
PUTRAJAYA, March 13 — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that all Malaysian pilgrims staying at the Mir...
Makkah lantern event celebrates local culture Arab News
Saudi Arabia is hosting stranded GCC nationals in Makkah with 2,500 hotel rooms allocated by the Makkah Chamber of Commerce.
Pilgrims heading to Makkah and Madinah for Ramadan should expect warmer weather. Saudi Arabia's meteorology center predicts above-average temperatures and below-normal rainfall. Daytime conditions will feel noticeably warmer, especially in the afternoons. Any precipitation is expected to be light. This forecast helps authorities prepare services for worshippers during the holy month.
Experts gathered to discuss how the tri-nation Makkah Joint Defence Agreement will shape regional security and stability amid shifting geopolitical landscapes.
ISTANBUL — Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan agreed Monday to establish the secretariat of the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement in the Kingdom as the three countries moved to institutionalize their…
Analysts examine how Dhaka's potential alignment with the newly formed Makkah defense alliance could challenge its long-standing policy of strategic autonomy.
Military chiefs and ministers from three nations convened in Turkey to discuss defense cooperation and move forward with the implementation of the Makkah agreement.
Government representatives stated that participating in the regional initiative aligns with national interests and poses no threat to sovereignty or existing foreign policy commitments.
Education departments in Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, and Taif have completed preparations to welcome nearly two million students back to school. The nationwide academic restart follows extensive logistical planning.
Kuwait has formalized new defense cooperation pacts with both India and Pakistan, marking a significant expansion of its military partnerships in the region. Pakistani officials described the agreement as a step toward regional stability, while Indian diplomats emphasized strengthened bilateral ties.
Experts examine the geopolitical significance of a newly formed defense agreement between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan centered around security in Makkah.
France and Saudi Arabia have agreed on a $7 billion project to build a Dragon Ball Z-themed amusement park near Paris, with Saudi Arabia also planning a cultural center in the city. This initiative, backed by Qiddiya Investment Company, is expected to rival the scale of Disneyland Paris.
Deputy Emir of Makkah Prince Saud bin Mishaal distributed land titles to 1,480 citizens in Jeddah as part of the Jeddah Mayoralty's efforts to resolve land disputes in the Al-Malisaa township.
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani announced that Syria is considering joining the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, a mutual-defence pact recently signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye.
Syria is reportedly considering joining the Makkah pact, with the Prime Minister reaffirming support for Syria's sovereignty.
For the first time in its history, female contestants are participating in the King Abdulaziz International Competition for the Memorization, Recitation and Interpretation of the Holy Qur’an in Makkah.
A Makkah defence pact is being analyzed for its potential implications and whether it could hinder the realization of a 'Greater Israel' vision.
The Makkah Agreement has been highlighted, with a specific warning issued to those who plan to initiate strikes. This pact aims to address and mitigate conflicts by cautioning against pre-emptive attacks.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif briefed President Asif Ali Zardari on the Makkah defence agreement, reviewing counter-terrorism efforts and reiterating the nation's resolve to eliminate terrorism.
Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan have signed a new defense agreement, with Turkish President Erdogan expressing intentions to expand the pact to include more countries. This emerging alliance is seen by some as a new power axis that could complicate existing regional strategies and potentially challenge other nations.
Bahrain's Foreign Minister congratulated Pakistan on the Makkah defence pact, expressing a desire to visit Pakistan. India's MEA is assessing the ramifications of this new defence agreement between Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia.
A new defense pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, signed in Mecca, has drawn varied reactions and sparked debate across the region. Iran views the agreement as a sign of a shift away from the US security umbrella, while some analysts suggest it complicates the nuclear landscape for China and India.
Kuwait's Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah felicitated Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Yemen's Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for a drone attack on a Saudi Aramco oil refinery in Jizan, Saudi Arabia, which reportedly caused a fire that was later extinguished. This incident highlights the ongoing conflict and escalating tensions in the region, with the Houthis frequently targeting Saudi infrastructure.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has described the Makkah Defence Agreement as a historic milestone, praising Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir. He stated that the agreement will further strengthen the country's defense capabilities.
Nigerian security forces successfully rescued multiple kidnap victims, including relatives of a former minister and individuals in Plateau and Kaduna states, while also foiling other abduction attempts.
The Kano State Government has introduced daily shuttle services for its Hajj pilgrims in Makkah, aiming to provide easy access to the Grand Mosque for prayers and enhance their pilgrimage experience.
The sky above Makkah witnessed a near-perfect solar alignment directly over the Holy Kaaba, an astronomical event of spiritual significance.
The sky over Makkah experienced a near-perfect solar alignment directly above the Holy Kaaba.
Over 1.5 million Muslim pilgrims converged on Mount Arafat, near Mecca, to observe the most sacred day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage amidst soaring temperatures. Preparations were reviewed as pilgrims moved to Arafat, with many praying on the mount as the Hajj reached its peak.
Authorities apprehended 33 expatriates who were attempting to enter the holy city of Makkah illegally.
Weather forecasts for Hajj 2026 predict temperatures reaching a high of 44ºC in Makkah's holy sites, starting from the Day of Arafah.
The 911 emergency center in Makkah and Madinah has implemented enhancements to improve services for pilgrims during the Hajj season. These upgrades aim to ensure better safety and support for visitors.
Pilgrims from around the world are continuing to arrive in Makkah as preparations for the annual Hajj pilgrimage intensify.
An Arabic language teaching program has been inaugurated at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, aiming to educate pilgrims and visitors.
The initial group of Pakistani pilgrims has reached Makkah, marking the next phase of the Hajj operation as preparations for the annual pilgrimage continue.
Hajj operations are expanding, with the first flight under the 'Road to Makkah' initiative departing from Islamabad, carrying 270 pilgrims to Madina.
Starting Monday, expatriates will not be permitted to enter Makkah without an official permit, according to new regulations.
Preparations for this year's haj season are reportedly progressing smoothly, with a team inspecting facilities in Makkah and Madinah to ensure readiness.
Watch: Rains fall upon worshippers in Makkah on last day of Ramadan 2026 Khaleej Times
The Saudi Commerce Ministry carried out more than 21,000 inspection tours in Makkah and Madinah during Ramadan to ensure compliance and fair practices.
Nearly 2 million people cross Makkah miqats during Ramadan Arab News
Al-Sudais launches charity campaign in Makkah Arab News
The Saudi Council of Ministers commended the results of the inaugural meeting of the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement's strategic committee, emphasizing its role in enhancing regional deterrence and collective defense capabilities.
The inaugural meeting of the trilateral defense alliance among Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia was held, with the parties agreeing to establish a secretariat and open the pact to other nations. Officials described it as a new security architecture for the region.
Makkah Pact: FM says no reason for anyone to be upset or worried Dhaka Tribune
Border Guard patrols in the Makkah region detained four individuals from Myanmar and Bangladesh for fishing without permits and using prohibited equipment, violating local safety regulations.
Islamabad has committed to expanding its military and strategic cooperation with Ankara under a newly referenced defense framework.
Bangladeshi officials are conducting a comprehensive review of the proposed Makkah Pact before issuing a final decision on ratification. The law minister emphasized that the government will weigh all legal, economic, and strategic implications prior to proceeding.
During meetings with Saudi ministers and military leadership, Pakistan's prime minister promoted the Makkah pact as a significant step toward regional stability and peace.
The coastal area of Al-Shuaiba in Makkah is experiencing a surge in kitesurfing tourism and local participation, driving economic and recreational development along the Red Sea shoreline.
Bangladesh has expressed interest in joining the Makkah Defense Pact, a military alliance of Muslim-majority nations. An official confirmed the country's potential participation in the pact.
The Administrative Court of Appeal in Makkah has overturned a university's decision to suspend a student for two semesters, affirming that disciplinary actions against students are subject to judicial review.
This article is an archive page related to the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement.
The 46th King Abdulaziz International Competition for Memorization, Recitation, and Interpretation of the Holy Qur’an concluded in Makkah. The winners were honored by the spouse of King Salman and the Makkah deputy emir.
Former President Trump has threatened to bomb Oman if it interferes with US actions in the Strait of Hormuz, reiterating his stance on controlling the vital waterway. This comes amidst heightened tensions and threats from Iran to go on the offensive in the Strait if diplomatic efforts with the US fail.
US President Donald Trump welcomed the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Pakistan, describing the landmark pact as a major step toward strengthening regional security. He emphasized its importance in enhancing the countries' ability to defend themselves.
Details regarding the 'Makkah Pact' are discussed.
Turkey has begun to lay out its plans for a Makkah pact, while the Prime Minister has declared that 'every drop of water is our red line.' This indicates a focus on both diplomatic initiatives and critical resource management.
Turkish President Erdogan stated that the vision of the Makkah Agreement, built on the principle of collective deterrence, extends beyond Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, and is open to all peace-seeking regional states.
Saudi Arabia has announced a long-term defense agreement with Turkey and Pakistan, aimed at boosting cooperation. This new pact, sometimes referred to as an 'Islamic NATO,' has raised concerns in India.
Bahrain's Foreign Minister congratulated Pakistan on the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, while Türkiye launched a campaign to celebrate the deal signed with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan's Dar reiterated that the Makkah defence pact is 'defensive in nature' and not directed against any specific country, stressing it is an expression of collective commitment to peace through strength.
The Makkah defense pact has been hailed by the OIC as a 'purely defensive' agreement not targeted at any specific country. Pakistan's Prime Minister Dar emphasized its defensive nature upon his return.
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a new trilateral defense pact in Mecca, sparking debate about its implications for regional power dynamics and the US role in the Middle East. While some view it as a potential 'Islamic NATO,' Turkey has clarified that the agreement does not contradict its NATO commitments.
An article explores the unique intersection or connection between Chittagong and Makkah, suggesting a cultural or religious link.
Saudi Arabia has officially concluded the Hajj pilgrimage for 2026, reporting that approximately 1.7 million pilgrims visited Makkah during the sacred event.
Over 1.7 million Muslim faithful from 165 nations have begun leaving Makkah after completing the annual Haj pilgrimage, which took place amid tensions following US-Israeli strikes on Iran.
Governor Sani has commended pilgrims from Kaduna in Makkah, reminding them that Hajj is a fundamental pillar of Islam requiring patience, perseverance, and devotion.
Iranians participating in the Haj pilgrimage in Makkah are reportedly finding peace and safety, offering a welcome relief after weeks of devastating war back home in Iran.
All Kuwaiti pilgrims reach Makkah Kuwait Times
The UAE has deployed medical teams to Makkah as part of its 'healthy, safe Hajj' campaign, aiming to ensure the well-being of pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative is successfully streamlining and easing the journey for Hajj pilgrims, enhancing their experience.
Malaysian pilgrims performing the Haj have been reminded to strictly adhere to miqat rules and other Saudi regulations while in Makkah.
Six individuals from Pakistan were apprehended by authorities while attempting to enter the holy city of Makkah without proper authorization.
Hajj security forces have arrested a man in Makkah for illegally transporting six individuals without the required permits.
A man has been arrested in Makkah for allegedly posting fake advertisements for Hajj permits on social media platforms.
Makkah Border Guards successfully rescued two Bangladeshi individuals who were found stranded at sea.
Authorities in Makkah are maintaining a high state of alert after recent heavy rains, taking precautionary measures to ensure public safety and manage potential flooding.
'Safe Heart Zone' at Grand Mosque in Makkah enables rapid heart attack treatment Saudi Gazette
18,000 personnel mobilized in Makkah, Madinah as itikaf begins Arab News
Officials say situation for Pakistani pilgrims, travellers in Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah remains stable
Registration is now open for i'tikaf at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, commencing on 20 Ramadan. Worshippers can apply electronically to observe this spiritual practice in a safe and organized environment during the final ten days of Ramadan.