Türkiye’s Security Begins at Islamabad, Declares Senior Turkish MP Ali Şahin

The bold remarks, made during an interview with

Turkey’s Channel 24, underline the strategic

depth of the Türkiye-Pakistan alliance

Shabana Ayaz

Islamabad: In a powerful and assertive statement, senior Turkish parliamentarian Ali Şahin has declared that Türkiye’s security begins at Islamabad, calling the Pakistani capital one of Ankara’s “red lines.” The bold remarks, made during an interview with Turkey’s Channel 24, underline the strategic depth of the Türkiye-Pakistan alliance.

“Islamabad is a strategic frontier post for us,” Şahin said. “Türkiye’s security zone effectively begins at the Pakistan-India border. Without securing Islamabad, Ankara itself cannot be considered safe.”

Şahin went on to highlight Pakistan’s critical role in regional stability, particularly in the context of nuclear deterrence. He said Israel views Pakistan as a bigger threat than Iran due to its confirmed nuclear arsenal. “Iran’s nuclear potential remains uncertain, but Pakistan is a confirmed and fully operational nuclear power,” he added.

He warned that Israel aims to neutralize all Muslim military and nuclear powers that could challenge its expansionist ambitions.

Şahin’s remarks are being viewed by analysts as a clear message of Ankara’s unwavering support for Pakistan and a call for stronger unity among Muslim nations. The statement reflects Türkiye’s growing emphasis on strategic defense partnerships within the Islamic world, amid rising global tensions and perceived efforts to weaken powerful Muslim states.