US backs 'Islamic Nato': Trump calls Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan pact 'big, bold and important step'

In Turkey and the Gulf on August 17, 2026, Trump called the Mecca agreement, a defense pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, a “big, bold and important step.” Times of India described it as an “Islamic Nato” that the US backs. Erdogan said the Mecca agreement sends a message for world peace, and Pakistan's PM Sharif said Pakistan will play a constructive role with Saudi Arabia and Turkey to defend the region.

Erdogan urged Trump to continue peace talks with Iran and offered support, and discussed the Gaza war. Erdogan also said Turkey's EU accession is not a priority, Greece branded Turkey's new marine parks “illegal,” and Özgür Özel launched a new party against Erdogan.