Iran Welcomes Saudi-Pakistan-Turkey Defense Pact

Iran said a new defense pact between Pakistan, Turkey and Saudi Arabia reflects a change in perception toward the United States and poses no threat. The agreement, referred to as the Makkah Agreement, is seen by Iran as a shift in approach and a major win. Pakistan said the pact will not be aggressive and marks a turning point in its relations with Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Pakistan also rejected Taliban government claims that it smuggled weapons into Afghanistan.