A high-level diplomatic delegation from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey convened in Tehran, Iran, today, October 26, 2026, for urgent talks aimed at de-escalating tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel. This gathering follows increased Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and fears of renewed US-Iran fighting, with both the US and Israel reportedly having plans for military strikes on Iran after the American midterm elections on November 3.

These discussions highlight a concerted diplomatic effort to prevent broader conflict in the region, bringing together key regional players at a critical juncture.

What the Records Show

The delegation included Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, Pakistan army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin. They met with Iranian officials to promote dialogue and seek diplomatic solutions for regional security challenges. Ali Bagheri Kani, Deputy Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, affirmed the meeting and suggested it could establish an "indigenous regional security framework". The talks specifically brought together Iran and the three signatories to the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. This agreement, signed in August, considers an armed attack on one member an attack on all. Dr. Rayed Krimly, Saudi Arabia's deputy minister for public diplomacy, confirmed Prince Khalid's participation via his X account. The delegation was scheduled to meet with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Secretary-General of the Supreme National Security Council Mohsen Rezaei.

The Timeline

The talks occurred on October 26, 2026. The United States and Israel have reportedly drawn up plans for renewed military strikes on Iran following the American midterm elections on November 3. An October 23 memo from Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton to Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated US intelligence found that "Iran has substantially increased efforts to target US personnel". Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia have escalated in recent weeks, targeting Riyadh airport and Saudi oil facilities. Qatari mediators also met Iranian officials in Tehran on Sunday, October 25, as part of de-escalation efforts. Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, had visited Tehran earlier, and senior Iranian officials told him no talks with Washington would occur until Tehran's demands were met.

What Changed and For Whom

This meeting marks the first high-level contact between Iran and all members of the Makkah Pact since Saudi Arabia became more deeply involved in the wider Iran conflict. The primary objective of these discussions is to prevent further conflict and push for a diplomatic agreement with Washington. A key focus for some in the delegation is how Iran might persuade the Houthis to end their attacks on Saudi Arabian infrastructure. These talks represent a direct engagement between the parties involved in the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement and Iran, aiming to manage a volatile regional situation that could involve broader military action from the US and Israel.

What the Subject Has Said Publicly

Ali Bagheri Kani, Deputy Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, stated that this four-country meeting "can certainly be an effective and important step in shaping an indigenous regional security framework". Dr. Rayed Krimly, Saudi Arabia's deputy minister for public diplomacy, indicated that the meeting aimed to "help ease regional tensions" and promote "dialogue and diplomatic solutions".

What We Could Not Confirm

We could not confirm the specific outcomes or agreements reached during the October 26, 2026, meeting. It is unconfirmed if the meeting directly resulted in a change in Houthi activity or US and Israeli military plans.