Trump cuts diesel taxes as Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan alliance deploys troops

U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday, 5 October, to immediately reduce diesel costs by allowing the highway use of tax-free dyed diesel and deferring federal taxes on the fuel through the end of 2026. The move follows a surge in energy prices linked to the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict, with Brent crude remaining above $100 a barrel due to increased insurance and refining costs. New Middle East defence alliance formed In a parallel security development, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have activated collective-defence commitments under the newly-formed "Mecca Defence Alliance." Following an emergency meeting in Riyadh, the three nations agreed to the "rapid deployment" of military forces to Saudi Arabia to counter escalating attacks by Iran-backed Houthi forces. U.S. Representative Joe Wilson stated on Monday, 5 October, that the pact has the potential to function as a "NATO of the Middle East." The military escalation comes as Saudi-backed Yemeni forces launch a major offensive against Houthi positions. The Houthis have recently claimed responsibility for strikes targeting Saudi oil infrastructure and airports, prompting the alliance to move toward practical implementation of mutual defence protocols. Naval blockade chokes Iranian trade U.S. Central Command (CentCom) confirmed on Monday that its warships have redirected 130 commercial vessels since resuming a naval blockade of Iranian ports on 14 July. CentCom reported that the latest vessel was…