Yemen: The First Test of the Makkah Alliance?

This analysis by Dr. Tughral Yamin, Senior IPS Associate, examines Yemen as the first major test of the newly established Makkah Joint Defense Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye. The policy insight explores the strategic importance of the Bab el-Mandeb, Saudi security concerns, and Pakistan’s dilemma between treaty commitments and avoiding direct involvement in Yemen’s civil war. It also draws lessons from Egypt’s experience of intervention in Yemen. Importantly, the commentary argues that the alliance should prioritize Saudi territorial defense, deterrence, maritime security, and diplomacy rather than becoming entangled in a prolonged ground war.