European and Middle Eastern state ministers are presenting a united front to stand against any further strikes on Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Foreign ministers from eight countries—the UK, France, Germany, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Italy, and Egypt— met in Türkiye on Friday to discuss the Middle East war, Israel’s genocidal campaign in Gaza, the prospect of ending the Russia-Ukraine war, and other issues.
The countries share concerns that further escalation of the US-Iran war would not benefit any state and would only raise energy prices further.
Their warning came after the US ambassador to Turkiye, Tom Barrack, said Washington could “absolutely” strike Iran this weekend.
While speaking to X podcast host Mario Nawfal, Mr Barrack said President Donald Trump is “open and available and accessible to a deal … he’s also been very clear about what he wants.”
The ministers cautioned against further attacks on Tehran and urged restraint, dialogue and diplomacy between the parties, according to Al Jazeera.
They also rejected any measures that restrict lawful navigation and called for the full resumption of secure passage through the Strait of Hormuz
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said the world cannot afford another escalation in the region.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said that none of the countries participating in the meeting approved of another military intervention or attack on Iran.
He said such a move would only exacerbate tensions and further expand the conflict.
“A further escalation between Iran and the US would create nothing but losers and would undoubtedly have very serious consequences for hydrocarbon prices.”
Italy’s minister, Antonio Tajani, also stressed the need to work for “de-escalation to guarantee freedom of navigation.”
He also said, “I do not believe the problem can be solved from a purely military standpoint; we must promote dialogue” to reopen Hormuz.
READ ALSO: IRGC threatens invasion of neighbours that attack Iran
On Gaza, ministers belonging to the Regional Four group (R4) called Israeli occupation the fundamental source of instability in the region and beyond.
The R4 countries are: Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Italy and Egypt.
They asked Israel to “bring an end to further destruction and humanitarian tragedy in Palestine.”
They also “condemned in the strongest terms the unacceptable escalation by the Houthi militia”, expressing full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and the internationally recognised Yemeni government.
They also urged the Houthis to cease all military actions and return to the political process.
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