Turkeys Parliament to Decide on Sending Troops to Saudi Arabia
Ankara has put on its agenda a plan to send equipment and specialist personnel to Saudi Arabia within the framework of new military agreements.
Protecting Saudi Arabia’s vital infrastructure, especially the East-West oil pipeline, has been declared the main objective of this military presence.
Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia announced in a joint statement the immediate implementation of collective defense commitments within the framework of the Mecca Defense Alliance. According to the statement, the agreed forces and military capabilities are being prepared for rapid deployment on Saudi territory.
Since last year, Turkey has deployed technical teams, air defense systems, and electronic warfare equipment in Saudi Arabia to protect vital infrastructure, including energy facilities. Continuing this process, Ankara will send more equipment, technicians, emergency response teams, and supporting combat forces.
The 2010 military training agreement between Saudi Arabia and Turkey allows Ankara to send a limited number of forces to Saudi Arabia for technical purposes. Deploying more forces requires parliamentary approval under Turkey’s constitution.
Turkey’s Parliament is expected to decide late this month on a bill authorizing the deployment of military forces. If approved, Turkey will send its forces to Saudi Arabia, including fighter jets to counter drones and ballistic missiles.
Ankara has no plan to send a large group of soldiers and has rejected any intention of direct intervention in Yemen. Turkey continues to emphasize the possibility of diplomatic efforts bearing fruit in the coming months.
