In a concerted diplomatic effort to address escalating tensions in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Pakistan have jointly called for urgent action to establish an independent Palestinian state. Meeting in Istanbul, the foreign ministers of these nations reiterated their support for a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, advocating for East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. They emphasized the importance of halting Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, reducing settler violence, and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The ministers also highlighted the necessity of resolving the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran through dialogue and diplomacy. They urged the involved parties to work towards a lasting negotiated settlement to prevent further military escalation in the region.
Additionally, the four countries condemned Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and Yemen, particularly those affecting civilians and critical infrastructure. Expressing solidarity with Saudi Arabia, they called on the Houthis to cease military operations and return to negotiations.
Maritime security was another key issue on the agenda. The ministers condemned attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, warning that disruptions to international shipping routes could threaten global supply chains and the movement of essential commodities such as oil, food, and fertilizers. They stressed the importance 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 and his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, discussed bilateral relations, the situation in Yemen, and regional security. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and supporting peace, stability, and freedom of navigation across the region.