Mecca joint defense pact supports US push for burden-sharing, analyst says

Political analyst and academic Dr. Iyad Al-Rifai said the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement strengthens US efforts to promote military cooperation and the sharing of security responsibilities with its allies.

Speaking to Al Arabiya, Al-Rifai added that the US strategy for years has focused on "burden-sharing," with Washington previously urging NATO and European Union member states to do the same.

He continued that former US President Donald Trump, his administration, and the American political elite welcome the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement. The US is keen for regional countries to take greater control of their own affairs, as Washington shifts its focus to confronting China in Asia. As a result, the US seeks to secure the Middle East, Europe, and Africa through alliances with friendly or allied nations, aiming to protect the global capitalist economic model and safeguard its economic, technological, and cultural presence in the Middle East.

Al-Rifai also noted that the US wants to concentrate its security and military efforts on confronting China and addressing domestic issues, moving away from its previous deep involvement in the Middle East. He said Washington no longer wishes to play the role of "global policeman" for an extended period, as American voters are increasingly opposed to this approach.

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