Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Pakistan have jointly called for urgent diplomatic efforts to establish an independent Palestinian state and address rising tensions in the Middle East. In a meeting held in Istanbul, the foreign ministers of these nations underscored their commitment to a two-state solution, advocating for the establishment of Palestine along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The ministers also demanded a halt to Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, as well as a cessation of settler violence. They emphasized the importance of ensuring uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza. The meeting highlighted the necessity of resolving tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran through dialogue and diplomacy, urging these parties to seek a lasting negotiated settlement to prevent further military escalation.
Beyond the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the ministers condemned recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and Yemen, particularly those affecting civilians and critical infrastructure. They expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia, urging the Houthis to cease military operations and return to negotiations.
Maritime security was another critical issue discussed. The ministers condemned assaults on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, noting that disruptions in these areas could threaten global supply chains and the movement of essential commodities like oil, food, and fertilizers. They called for the restoration of safe and unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, stressing the need to protect international maritime trade.
During a separate bilateral meeting, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, discussed regional security, the situation in Yemen, and ways to strengthen bilateral relations. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation and supporting peace and stability across the region.
