Israel has not issued an official response to a new defense agreement signed in Makkah by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan. Analysts say the pact could create fresh challenges for Israel’s regional expansionism and military activity in the Middle East. Under a key provision, an armed attack on any one of the three countries would be treated as an attack on all of them.

Turkey’s participation is viewed as especially concerning for Israel. Turkey has been a strong critic of Israel over the Gaza war, while President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has described Israeli military activity in Syria and Lebanon as a direct threat to Turkey. Pakistan, which does not recognize Israel, has also sharply criticized Tel Aviv. In April, Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif called Israel a curse for humanity.

Analysts say the alliance is intended not only to confront Israel but also to provide Saudi Arabia with strategic alternatives beyond dependence on US security and strengthen cooperation against Iran. Ahead of Israel’s October national election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is presenting Turkey as a possible new strategic rival. Opposition groups may cite the pact as evidence of his diplomatic failure to normalize relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel.