In a recent meeting held in Istanbul, the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Pakistan have called for immediate diplomatic efforts to establish a sovereign Palestinian state and to alleviate rising tensions in the Middle East. The ministers reiterated their commitment to a two-state solution, emphasizing the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. They also called for a cessation of Israeli settlement activities in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, a reduction in settler violence, and the provision of uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The talks underscored the importance of resolving ongoing conflicts in the region through dialogue and diplomacy. The ministers urged the United States, Israel, and Iran to seek a lasting negotiated settlement to prevent further military escalation. In addition to the Israeli-Palestinian issue, the ministers condemned recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and Yemen, especially those targeting civilians and essential infrastructure. They expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and urged the Houthis to cease military operations and return to negotiations.
Another critical topic discussed was maritime security. The foreign ministers condemned attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, stressing that disruptions could jeopardize global supply chains and the movement of vital commodities like oil, food, and fertilizers. They also called for the restoration of safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the necessity of protecting international maritime trade routes.
Additionally, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, held a separate meeting to discuss bilateral relations, the situation in Yemen, and regional security. Both ministers reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing cooperation and supporting peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the region.