New bulwark against Iran

The United States is reportedly working to set up an “Arab NATO” security alliance of friendly Middle East states as part of its efforts to thwart Iran’s military expansionism in the region.

The alliance — which would include Egypt, Jordan and Gulf Cooperation Council states including Bahrain — is aimed at fostering further military cooperation between the countries, such as on missile defence and counter-terrorism, Reuters reported.

The proposed pact, known as the Middle East Strategic Alliance, would also be aimed at deepening economic and diplomatic ties, US and Arab sources quoted by the news agency said.