The 51st session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) kicked off in Istanbul under the theme "The OIC in a Transforming World." With over 35 foreign ministers and nearly 1,000 delegates in attendance, this two-day summit aims to navigate regional security challenges amid escalating Israel-Iran tensions.
In his opening remarks, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned that "there is an Israel problem in the region." He urged Tel Aviv to immediately stop its strikes on Iran and called on the international community to step in before the conflict spirals further out of control.
Fidan was especially critical of Israel's action during ongoing nuclear talks, declaring, "We strongly condemn Israel's attack on Iran while nuclear negotiations are ongoing." His intervention set a tone of urgency and solidarity among OIC members.
Addressing the session, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan labeled recent Israeli strikes as "thuggery," highlighting attacks not only on Iran but also on Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen, and Syria. He stressed the importance of unity in the Islamic world: "We must continue our initiatives to implement compelling measures against Israel based on international law and the UN Charter."
Against a backdrop of shifting alliances and geopolitical fault lines, ministers are using this platform to push for cohesive strategies that balance diplomacy with decisive action. From calls for stronger sanctions to robust peace negotiations, the agenda reflects a shared desire to prevent a broader regional crisis.
As discussions unfold, young leaders and changemakers will be watching closely. The outcome of this summit could reshape regional dynamics and offer a glimpse into how the Islamic world plans to assert its voice on the global stage.
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OIC foreign ministers convene in Istanbul amid Israel-Iran conflict
cgtn.com
