BBC NewsHour

Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan sign a defence pact

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Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have signed a joint defence agreement - which commits all three countries to defending each other if attacked. The deal brings together three of the world's most powerful Muslim-majority countries. But although it pledges mutual support, it provides no specifics on the obligations of each party. The move to boost security cooperation follows the turmoil in the region triggered by the US war against Iran, which has drawn in Saudi Arabia and restricted its oil exports.

Also in the programme: A mega fine for Meta - what does it mean for children's safety on social media platforms? And 50 years on, the punks still pogo-ing like it's 1976.

(Photo: Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan shakes hands with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif looks on after they signed a joint defence agreement in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, August 7, 2026. Credit: Murat Cetinmuhurdar/Turkish Presidential Press Office/Handout via Reuters)
7 Aug 5PM English United Kingdom News

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