In a diplomatic gathering in Istanbul, representatives from eight nations, including Türkiye, Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy, have collectively voiced their opposition to any new military attack on Iran. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan highlighted the consensus among these countries that further military escalation could exacerbate regional conflicts and destabilize the Middle East.
Fidan emphasized the group’s preference for diplomacy and dialogue as the most effective methods for resolving the ongoing crisis. He warned that renewed military actions could potentially widen the conflict across the region rather than ease existing tensions. The participating nations expressed their support for efforts to prevent the expansion of war and to bring hostilities in both the Gulf region and Ukraine to an end.
The discussions also addressed Israel’s involvement in regional tensions, alongside security concerns in strategic areas like the Black Sea, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. These regions are critical passages for international trade and global energy markets, and disruptions there could have significant consequences.
Highlighting the broader impact, Fidan pointed out that conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine are imposing substantial economic and financial pressures on countries worldwide. He called for increased international cooperation and effective diplomatic mechanisms to avert further destruction and to support peaceful solutions.
Additionally, Fidan mentioned that Türkiye is engaged in discussions with Egypt to address Cairo’s concerns regarding Ankara’s maritime agreement with Libya. He also expressed optimism about the potential for improved conditions that could unite Libya’s rival factions from the east and west.