Which other countries could join the Turkiye-Saudi-Pakistan defence pact?
While Egypt has been floated as a candidate, analysts say Cairo may be wary of defence commitments.

While Egypt has been floated as a candidate, analysts say Cairo may be wary of defence commitments.



![US President Trump departs after a Cabinet meeting at Camp David in Thurmont, Maryland, US, July 31, 2026. [Nathan Howard/Reuters]](/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/2026-07-31T194303Z_1226099969_RC27PMACMPI0_RTRMADP_3_USA-TRUMP-1785528430.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)



![Kuwaiti officials inspect damage inside a terminal at Kuwait International Airport following a drone and missile attack,[reuters]](/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/reuters_6a20a9e4-1780525540.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)
Towering plumes of smoke rose over Kuwait after Iranian strikes hit multiple locations in Mangaf.
Iran struck Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Jordan and Syria in retaliation for US strikes.
US attacks kill dozens as retaliating Iranian forces target regional bases, pushing fragile truce closer to collapse.
Sheikh Hamad, who ruled the country from 1995 to 2013 and revolutionised modern-day Qatar, died on Sunday, aged 74.
Expensive interceptor missiles are facing mounting pressure from Iran’s cheaply produced drones.
Iran targets its Gulf neighbours in third round of tit-for-tat attacks with US in a week.
Leader known as Qatar’s father emir was able to redefine his nation’s position on the political map of the Middle East.
After Sheikh Hamad’s death, global leaders offer condolences, praise his legacy and Qatar’s growth.
While Trump said the MoU with Iran is ‘over’, US officials have reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to continue talks.
Despite Iranian attacks, several GCC states continue to speak with Tehran in effort to mend ties and forge cooperation.