\n<\/p>\n
Iran and its allies have launched attacks on targets in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states and blockaded their shipments after the US and Israel attacked it on 28 February.<\/p>\n
In Yemen, Iran-backed Houthi rebels \u2013 who control the north of the country – have been fighting government forces, which are backed by a Saudi-led coalition. <\/p>\n
Last month the Houthis announced a “maritime embargo” against Saudi Arabia and targeted Saudi airports, oil facilities and tankers in the Red Sea.<\/p>\n
Saudi Arabia has responded with strikes targeting Houthi positions and by forming a new naval coalition to protect shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.<\/p>\n
Announcing the pact on Friday, Pakistan’s foreign ministry said an attack on any of the three states “shall be regarded as an attack against them all”.<\/p>\n
The “Mecca Joint Defence Agreement” pledges mutual support between the three Sunni states, but provides no specifics on the obligations of each.<\/p>\n
A Turkish official quoted by Reuters news agency said the pact was “purely defensive in nature”.<\/p>\n
The three countries have expressed concern as the conflict between Israel and Iran shows no sign of abating and their common ally, the US, struggles to contain regional repercussions.<\/p>\n
Saudi Arabia brings the financial power and is one of the largest weapons purchasers.<\/p>\n
Turkey is the second-largest military force in Nato, with an advanced defence production capacity. Pakistan has nuclear weapons.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n