Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Pakistan have jointly called for urgent diplomatic efforts to establish an independent Palestinian state and ease tensions across the Middle East. Meeting in Istanbul, the foreign ministers of these countries reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, envisioning East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. They also urged a cessation of Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, a halt to settler violence, and the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The ministers emphasized the importance of resolving the ongoing conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran through dialogue and diplomacy. They advocated for a lasting negotiated settlement and cautioned against further military escalations in the region.
In addition to these core issues, the four nations condemned the Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and Yemen, especially those affecting civilians and critical infrastructure. They expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia, urging the Houthis to cease military operations and return to peace negotiations.
Maritime security was another significant topic discussed during the meeting. The ministers condemned attacks on commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, warning that disruptions could threaten global supply chains, including the movement of essential commodities such as oil, food, and fertilizers. They called for the restoration of safe and unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring the need to protect international maritime trade.
Separately, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, to discuss bilateral relations, the situation in Yemen, and regional security. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and promoting peace, stability, and freedom of navigation across the region.