Iran has stated that it does not view the recently signed Makkah Joint Defense Pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan as a move against Tehran. The Iranian ambassador to Bangladesh, Dr. Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi, also said Iran would not be concerned if Bangladesh eventually decides to join the alliance.

Speaking to journalists after a courtesy meeting with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir on Wednesday, the ambassador praised Bangladesh’s foreign policy, describing it as balanced and pragmatic.

“We are well aware that Bangladesh follows a highly balanced foreign policy,” Jahanabadi said, adding that any decision taken by Dhaka in the fields of international relations and security would not be a source of concern for Iran.

The ambassador emphasized that Iran does not consider the Makkah Pact to be directed against Tehran and reiterated that Bangladesh’s future decisions regarding the alliance would not negatively affect bilateral relations.

He also highlighted Iran’s strong interest in expanding political, economic, and cultural cooperation with Bangladesh.

Addressing broader regional developments, Jahanabadi argued that emerging security arrangements in the Middle East reflect a growing desire among regional states to strengthen their own security capabilities rather than rely heavily on external powers.

“The agreement demonstrates that regional countries are trying to stand on their own feet and take responsibility for their own security,” he said.

The Iranian envoy further noted that recent conflicts have shown that the presence of foreign military bases does not necessarily guarantee security, encouraging greater regional self-reliance and cooperation.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh continues to assess the potential implications of joining the Makkah Pact. Officials have stated that any future decision will be guided primarily by the country’s national interests.

The Makkah Joint Defense Pact was officially signed on August 7, 2026, by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey, with discussions ongoing regarding possible future expansion.