An opinion editorial from the EurAsian Times, published on January 18, 2026, explores the complex and evolving geopolitical landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East. The article posits a potential 'Mediterranean QUAD' scenario, where India might join the existing '3+1' strategic grouping comprising Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the United States. India has reportedly received a formal invitation to join this forum, which focuses on energy security, defense, counterterrorism, and economic cooperation. This potential alignment is framed as a counter-balance to an emerging 'Islamic NATO.' The concept of an 'Islamic NATO' refers to a proposed defense framework centered around a 'Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement' (SMDA) signed between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in September 2025. This pact reportedly includes a collective defense clause, mirroring NATO's Article 5, where an attack on one is considered an attack on all. Turkey has also expressed interest in joining this Saudi-Pakistan arrangement, with discussions underway. Analysts use the term 'Islamic NATO' to describe this developing alignment of predominantly Muslim nations, though it is not an official designation. Adding to the regional complexities is a verified and deepening rift between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This divergence, particularly evident in the Yemen civil conflict where the two erstwhile allies back opposing factions, has led to heightened tensions, including reported Saudi military actions against UAE-linked shipments in late 2025. The article questions if the UAE, amidst this Saudi rift, might expand its security ties with India and Israel, noting the UAE's existing involvement in the I2U2 Group (India, Israel, UAE, US), a strategic economic partnership. While the article raises speculative questions characteristic of an opinion piece from a source with a 'Right-Center' bias and 'Mixed' factual reporting, the underlying factual premises regarding the '3+1' grouping, the Saudi-Pakistan pact, and the Saudi-UAE rift are corroborated by multiple credible sources. India already maintains robust defense and economic ties with Israel, Greece, and has participated in joint military exercises in the Mediterranean, underscoring its strategic engagement in the region.