Geopolitical realignments like Turkey's push to join the Pakistan-Saudi defence pact highlight how alliances constantly evolve in response to shifting global dynamics—it's fascinating yet concerning for South Asian stability as it could alter power balances in a volatile region. Reports indicate Ankara extended technical and intelligence assistance to Pakistan following India's precise Operation Sindoor strikes on JeM camps in PoK back in September, which eliminated key operatives and relatives of Masood Azhar, marking a rare acknowledgment of losses from the Pakistani side.

Turkey now seeks formal trilateral status beyond existing bilaterals—Saudi Arabia funds Pakistan's cash-strapped military modernization programs, while Turkey supplies advanced drones and technology, boosting its own defence industry exports. As a NATO member, Ankara deftly hedges Western obligations with growing ties to Muslim world partners, seeking new markets after some Western restrictions on arms sales. Erdogan's strategy leverages Turkey's geographic position bridging Europe and Asia, along with its manufacturing capabilities, for greater influence in the Islamic sphere.

In my view, this is pragmatic power positioning—Turkey gains economic benefits and strategic depth. But it strengthens a perceived anti-India axis, raising Delhi's legitimate concerns about encirclement and potential escalation risks in an already tense neighborhood with ongoing border disputes and terrorism issues. Hoping the move encourages constructive dialogue over arms races, promoting de-escalation and stability across South Asia and the Middle East amid broader great-power plays involving US, China, and Russia.