Rafael Abuchaibe

Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan signed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, declaring that an armed attack on any one of the three countries will be treated as an attack on all three. The pact is intended to strengthen collective deterrence and defense cooperation, although it does not specify the parties’ precise obligations. Saudi Arabia seeks greater protection amid attacks linked to Iran and wider regional instability; Pakistan gains security, economic and diplomatic advantages amid tensions with India; and Turkey could expand defense-industry cooperation through joint production, technology partnerships and procurement. Analysts say the agreement could increase the three countries’ collective diplomatic and military influence, but its practical significance will depend on whether it becomes institutionalized. Pakistan’s nuclear capability is not expected to extend to the pact.

Abdul El-Sayed, a 41-year-old physician and son of an Egyptian immigrant, narrowly won the Democratic Senate primary in Michigan against moderate Representative Haley Stevens. Backed by progressive figures including Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Elizabeth Warren, he campaigned on universal public healthcare, lower drug prices, taxing the wealthy, campaign-finance reform, abolishing ICE and ending unconditional U.S. military aid to Israel. His position on Israel has drawn both support and opposition from Michigan’s Jewish community, while he rejects accusations of antisemitism. El-Sayed will face Republican Mike Rogers in November, in a race that could determine Democratic hopes of regaining control of the Senate. A victory would make him the first Muslim U.S. senator and strengthen the case for progressive candidates ahead of the 2028 presidential cycle; a defeat would be a major setback for the Democratic left.