Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt and Saudi Arabia have jointly called for a diplomatic path to end the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran. The four nations, known as the R4, also demanded the immediate restoration of safe and unimpeded shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Foreign ministers from the four countries met in Istanbul on October 23 and issued a joint statement after the inaugural R4 meeting. They endorsed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and stressed that regional disputes must be resolved through dialogue rather than further escalation.
The ministers underlined the urgent need to address the conflict only through diplomacy. They called for an end to attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including vessels. They expressed full support for continued diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a lasting negotiated solution.
The statement strongly rejected any measures that restrict lawful navigation. The ministers warned that disruption of sea lanes threatens global energy, fertiliser and food supplies. Such interruptions harm vulnerable populations both in the region and beyond. They demanded the swift and full resumption of safe, secure and unimpeded passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
On the Palestinian issue, the R4 described the Israeli occupation as a fundamental source of instability. They called for the early implementation of a two-state solution based on the June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as the capital of an independent Palestinian state. The ministers urged an immediate end to Israeli violence, settlement activities and attempts to alter Jerusalem’s legal status. They also stressed the need for uninterrupted humanitarian aid and reconstruction in Gaza.
Regarding Yemen, the four countries condemned the Houthi militia’s escalation. They strongly criticised continued attacks on Saudi civilians, civilian infrastructure and commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The ministers expressed solidarity with Yemen and Saudi Arabia and called on the Houthis to cease all military actions and return to the political process.
The foreign ministers agreed to maintain close consultation and coordination on these critical issues. Their joint position reflects a shared commitment to regional peace, maritime security and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
