Updated

Syria is considering joining the Mecca Joint Defence pact with Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, Middle East Eye reported on 2 November 2026. An analyst quoted by the outlet said the move is a bargaining chip with Israel and doubted Syria would become the pact's fourth member soon. Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad Shaibani spoke at the IISS Manama Dialogue on 31 October 2026, and the report gave no timeline for a decision.