Story perspectives

Middle East Bloc Rethinks Security Amid Regional Shifts

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

A bloc including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, and Oman seeks sovereignty and reduced external dependence, signaling a shift away from United States security reliance.
Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are strengthening their defense cooperation.
The Israeli strike in Doha in September 2025 highlighted the fragility of the old security model.
As regional players seek to manage risks and enhance stability, a potential new security architecture is emerging.

History

Historical Context

The Baghdad Pact, established in 1955 by Iraq, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, and the UK, aimed to counter Soviet influence in the Middle East. This alliance, however, faced significant opposition within Iraq and was perceived as a Western imposition. The pact's legacy continues today, as a new coalition of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, and Oman seeks similar regional stability and autonomy.

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Story summary

A bloc including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, and Oman seeks sovereignty and reduced external dependence, signaling a shift away from United States security reliance.
Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are strengthening their defense cooperation.
The Israeli strike in Doha in September 2025 highlighted the fragility of the old security model.
As regional players seek to manage risks and enhance stability, a potential new security architecture is emerging.

1 / 2