During a recent summit in Istanbul, foreign ministers from eight European and Middle Eastern countries have urged the United States and Israel to refrain from launching new military strikes on Iran. The ministers warned that such actions could escalate regional conflicts and destabilize global oil markets. The meeting, co-hosted by Türkiye, emphasized the necessity of diplomatic solutions to address tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that military intervention would not resolve the crisis, cautioning that another attack on Iran could extend the conflict across the region. France and the United Kingdom echoed this sentiment, underscoring the potential economic risks of renewed warfare and advocating for dialogue.
The discussions also touched on security concerns related to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global energy supplies, and addressed issues such as Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia. The participants called for measures to ensure freedom of navigation and prevent additional disruptions to international trade.
In addition to Türkiye, the meeting included representatives from Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy. The ministers also discussed broader regional issues, including the Palestinian conflict, settlement expansion, the two-state solution, and efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
The participating countries agreed on the need for enhanced diplomatic cooperation to mitigate regional tensions, safeguard economic interests, and prevent the spread of conflicts. This consensus reflects a shared commitment to pursuing peaceful resolutions and maintaining stability in the region.