"The pact reflects Saudi Arabia's desire to diversify its security architecture rather than abandon its relationship with the United States. Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan are not trying to replace the United States. Since the wider war began, Saudi Arabia has strengthened its relationships with Turkey, Pakistan and Egypt, all of which have supported mediation and efforts to end the conflict. A source close to the Saudi military and government said the arrangement had been under discussion for an extended period, but that "the latest developments in the region expedite it." Turkey and Pakistan insist the pact is not aimed at any single state, while Saudi Arabia says it is intended to build durable defensive capabilities rather than establish a new military axis.