OIC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Istanbul Focuses on Iran and Gaza Crisis
Over 40 Countries Represented, Strong Calls for Unity and Diplomacy
Istanbul: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers’ meeting is currently taking place in Istanbul, with a primary focus on the challenges faced by the Muslim world and the rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East. More than 40 diplomats, including Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, are participating in the discussions, with Pakistan being represented by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. The sight of Araqchi and Dar sitting together on the same platform has been viewed as a symbol of regional unity and dialogue.
During the meeting, a comprehensive review of the recent tensions in Iran will be conducted, along with a special session dedicated to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, as well as Israeli attacks on Gaza. Ishaq Dar is expected to present Pakistan’s position with a strong emphasis on regional peace, diplomacy, and the principles of unity.
Before the meeting, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi addressed the media, taking a firm stance on Israel’s aggression. He declared that Iran has the full right to defend itself against Israeli attacks and criticized Israel for sabotaging diplomatic talks by attacking Iran just two days before negotiations were set to take place on June 15.
Turkey’s Foreign Minister also delivered a passionate speech, calling for unity among Muslims. He stated that Islam unites all of us and that Muslims make up two-thirds of the world’s population. “Divided Muslims will never succeed,” he added. He also condemned the Israeli atrocities, saying, “The massacre of the people in Gaza and Israel’s attacks on Iran are pushing the region towards devastation. The matter is no longer about Gaza or Iran; it’s about stopping Israel. We must show solidarity with Gaza and Iran.”
The Turkish Foreign Minister further emphasized the necessity of a two-state solution for the Palestinian territories and reiterated Turkey’s commitment to supporting all OIC members in fighting global injustices.
During the meeting, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also addressed the gathering, focusing on the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, the dire situation of Palestinians, and the need for greater unity among Muslim countries. Erdogan expressed hope that the decisions made at the meeting would lead to improvements for the Muslim world. “The suffering of the people of Gaza is our own suffering, and we cannot remain silent,” he stated.
Erdogan condemned Israel’s actions, asserting that for the past two years, Israel, with the backing of global powers, has been engaged in aggression. “Millions of Palestinians have been martyred in Israeli attacks, and Gaza is suffering from hunger and poverty,” he said. He warned that lasting peace in the region would be impossible as long as Israel exists in its current form, adding, “The Israeli government has proven to be the biggest obstacle to peace.”
This OIC meeting is taking place at a critical juncture when the Middle East stands on the brink of war, and the decisions made here could have profound implications for the future of the Muslim world.
General view of 51st Meeting of Council of Foreign Ministers of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, Türkiye pic.twitter.com/kPjGbanrOS
— Türkiye Today (@turkiyetodaycom) June 21, 2025
