China Waits in Wings as Mecca Pact Signals Gulf Shift Away from US Security Umbrella The recent signing of the Mecca pact between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles.
The agreement marks a seismic shift in the regional security landscape, with China waiting to capitalize on this development.
For decades, the relationship between Washington and its Gulf allies was built on mutual convenience. The US protected its interests in the region while securing access to oil reserves and strategic military bases.