Iran Proposes Islamic NATO, Invites Saudi Arabia and Turkey

President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for the establishment of a unified security front among Muslim nations to counter their adversaries. During a state visit to Pakistan, he extended an invitation to countries including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar to join the initiative. Pezeshkian stated that Iran is extending a “hand of friendship” to create a new regional security structure. “Unity and solidarity among the Muslim community are essential to face common challenges,” he said. According to Tasnim, he noted that Iran has engaged in discussions with Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey, though some Gulf states such as the UAE and Kuwait were not mentioned, as Tehran views them as targets for retaliation over US and Israeli attacks. Pezeshkian called for a regional security framework rooted in dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation. He stressed that lasting peace and prosperity in West Asia and the Persian Gulf can only be achieved through engagement led by regional countries. Iran believes that sustainable security, stability, development, and economic progress require honest dialogue and constructive interaction between neighbours rather than external intervention. The president opened his address by quoting verses from the Muslim philosopher and poet Muhammad Iqbal, underscoring the importance of unity, solidarity, and revival in the Islamic world. President Pezeshkian arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday for an official visit to discuss ongoing diplomatic efforts following the signing of a US-Iran memorandum of understanding.