Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq Unite: A Strategic Proposal to Iran Against Israel and ISIS
Introduction
The Middle East is once again at the center of global attention. In recent months, an unprecedented diplomatic shift has taken place: Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq are holding joint discussions about forming a strategic alliance. Their main agenda revolves around two issues that dominate regional security—Israel’s rising influence and the persistent threat of ISIS. Adding to this development, these three powers are reportedly extending a proposal to Iran, seeking to reshape the balance of power in the Middle East.
This article explores the background, motivations, and possible consequences of such a coalition. It will also examine how these moves could affect U.S. policy, global oil markets, and the geopolitical order in West Asia.
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The Shifting Middle Eastern Landscape
For decades, the Middle East has been divided by sectarian rivalries, proxy wars, and foreign interventions. Saudi Arabia traditionally positioned itself against Iran, while Turkey maintained a balancing act between NATO membership and regional ambitions. Iraq, torn apart by U.S. invasions and ISIS insurgency, has often played the role of a battleground rather than a power broker.
But today, regional leaders are realizing that internal conflicts weaken them collectively. With Israel deepening ties with Western powers and expanding its security footprint, and ISIS cells still lurking across Syria and northern Iraq, the need for unity has become urgent.
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Why Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq Are Coming Together
1. Countering Israel’s Expanding Reach
Israel’s normalization deals with Gulf countries (such as the Abraham Accords) have shifted the regional security map.
Turkey has openly criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank, accusing it of destabilizing the region.
Saudi Arabia, under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is facing domestic and Islamic world pressure to rethink normalization with Israel.
Iraq, with its strong Shia influence, has always resisted Israeli presence.
Thus, the three nations see Israel’s rise as a shared threat to their sovereignty and regional influence.
2. Eliminating the ISIS Factor
Even after the fall of its so-called caliphate, ISIS remains active through sleeper cells.
Iraq still suffers frequent ISIS attacks in Kirkuk, Diyala, and Anbar provinces.
Turkey worries about ISIS spillover in Syria, especially near its borders.
Saudi Arabia views ISIS ideology as a direct challenge to its legitimacy as custodian of Islam’s holiest sites.
Coordinated military and intelligence efforts could finally weaken ISIS networks.
3. Energy Security and Oil Diplomacy
Iraq and Saudi Arabia are among the world’s largest oil producers.
Turkey is a critical energy transit hub between Asia and Europe.
A cooperative alliance could transform them into an energy super-bloc, challenging Western dependency and giving them leverage over global markets.
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The Proposal to Iran
The most surprising element in this emerging alliance is the invitation to Iran. Historically, Saudi Arabia and Iran have been rivals, locked in proxy wars across Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon. However, the new calculus suggests that cooperation is more profitable than conflict.
Key elements of the proposal reportedly include:
Joint Security Mechanisms: Coordinated military drills against terrorism and foreign interference.
Oil and Gas Cooperation: Unified strategies on pricing, export routes, and OPEC+ policies.
Palestinian Cause: A common diplomatic platform to challenge Israel’s occupation and strengthen Palestinian representation.
Border Stability: Ensuring no group like ISIS or Kurdish militias destabilizes Iran, Turkey, or Iraq.
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Potential Impact on the Middle East
1. A New Power Bloc
If successful, this coalition would represent a Sunni-Shia hybrid alliance—something never seen before in modern Middle Eastern politics. It could reduce sectarian divides and focus instead on collective security.
2. U.S. and Western Reaction
The United States has long relied on Saudi Arabia as a partner and viewed Turkey as a NATO ally. But if these countries align with Iran and Iraq against Israel, Washington may see this as a direct challenge to its influence. Sanctions, trade restrictions, and military pressure could follow.
3. Russia and China’s Role
Russia would likely welcome the move, as it strengthens its role as an arms supplier and diplomatic mediator.
China, already dependent on Middle Eastern oil, could deepen its Belt and Road Initiative projects in the region.
4. Palestinian Struggle Gains Strength
A united Arab-Islamic front could revive global attention on the Palestinian issue, which has recently been overshadowed by other conflicts.
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Challenges Facing the Alliance
1. Sectarian Differences: Saudi Arabia’s Sunni monarchy and Iran’s Shia theocracy have decades of mistrust.
2. U.S. Pressure: Washington will not tolerate a bloc openly hostile to Israel.
3. Internal Instability: Iraq’s fragile political system could undermine long-term commitments.
4. Economic Rivalries: Competition in oil markets might cause friction despite shared goals.
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Long-Term Strategic Outlook
If Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Iran manage to sustain cooperation, the Middle East could witness a historic transformation:
Reduction in Wars: Proxy wars in Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon may lose steam.
Economic Growth: A shared energy and infrastructure network could connect the Middle East more strongly with Asia and Europe.
Decline of U.S. Dominance: Washington may find itself increasingly isolated as regional powers assert independence.
Containment of Extremism: ISIS and other terror groups may finally face unified resistance.
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Conclusion
The alliance talks between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq, with a proposal to Iran, mark one of the most ambitious diplomatic shifts in recent Middle Eastern history. While challenges remain, the shared goals of countering Israel’s rise, defeating ISIS, and ensuring energy dominance could push these nations closer together.
If successful, this coalition could redefine the geopolitical map—not just of the Middle East, but of the world. Whether it becomes a new dawn of unity or collapses under old rivalries will depend on the political will of its leaders.
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