In a bid to address escalating tensions in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Pakistan have collectively called for urgent diplomatic efforts to establish an independent Palestinian state. Meeting in Istanbul, the foreign ministers of these countries emphasized the necessity of a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. They also demanded an immediate halt to Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem and called for the cessation of settler violence.
The ministers underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve ongoing conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. They urged all parties to pursue a lasting negotiated settlement and work towards preventing further military escalation in the region. Additionally, the foreign ministers condemned recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and Yemen, particularly those targeting civilians and critical infrastructure, and called for a cessation of hostilities and a return to negotiations.
Maritime security emerged as another focal point of discussion during the meeting. The ministers condemned attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, emphasizing the potential threat to global supply chains and the movement of essential commodities such as oil, food, and fertilizers. They also advocated for the restoration of safe and unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the critical importance of protecting international maritime trade routes.
In a separate meeting, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, discussed bilateral relations, the situation in Yemen, and regional security issues. Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation while supporting efforts geared towards peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the region.