Middle East realignment in the context of the Iran war
Political and security alignments · situation as of 24 October 2026
Reading the map
The war in Iran has reshaped regional security calculations, intensifying existing rivalries while encouraging new forms of strategic coordination. Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan have strengthened defence cooperation through the Pact of Mecca, while Israel and the UAE maintain security ties. Qatar and Oman continue to play important diplomatic and mediation roles. However, these alignments do not form two clearly defined blocs. Gulf states balance security partnerships with efforts to contain escalation, while Iran retains relationships with regional non state actors, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. The map therefore illustrates overlapping partnerships and competing interests rather than rigid alliances, with countries often cooperating on security while pursuing distinct diplomatic and economic priorities.
References
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