In a bid to address escalating tensions in the Middle East, the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Pakistan have collectively called for urgent diplomatic efforts to establish an independent Palestinian state. Convening in Istanbul, these nations have reiterated their support for a two-state solution grounded in the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. They have also urged a cessation of Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, and called for an end to settler violence, alongside guaranteeing uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The ministers emphasized the necessity of resolving the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran through dialogue and diplomacy. Stressing the importance of a lasting negotiated settlement, they warned against further military escalation in the region. Additionally, the group condemned attacks by the Houthi rebels targeting Saudi Arabia and Yemen, particularly those impacting civilians and critical infrastructure, and called for an immediate halt to military operations by the Houthis and a return to negotiations.
Maritime security emerged as a key topic during the discussions. The ministers condemned attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, warning that such disruptions could severely impact global supply chains, affecting the movement of vital commodities like oil, food, and fertilizers. They also underscored the necessity of restoring safe and unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz to protect international maritime trade.
In a separate meeting, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan engaged with his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, to discuss bilateral relations, the situation in Yemen, and regional security. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation and supporting peace, stability, and freedom of navigation across the region.