Istanbul:The Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, has issued a warning that any new military attack on Iran could escalate conflicts throughout the region. This statement came after an R4+E3 meeting held in Istanbul, marking the first of its kind in this format, which included foreign ministers from Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Germany, France, the UK, and Italy.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, plans for potential renewed strikes against Iran by the US and Israel have been discussed following the American midterm elections. The meeting emphasized that military interventions are not a viable solution, and consensus was reached that further military action could worsen regional instability.

Fidan highlighted the meeting's focus on preventing escalation and promoting peace in the Gulf region and Ukraine through ceasefires and lasting agreements. He stressed the importance of maintaining a coordinated stance on regional crises and advocated for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to alleviate disruptions affecting international markets.

The R4 mechanism, initiated by Türkiye, Egypt, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, aims to bolster regional dialogue and stability, while the E3 grouping of Germany, the UK, and France originated from diplomatic cooperation on Iran's nuclear program. Fidan noted the significance of the Istanbul meeting in fostering European and Middle Eastern cooperation.

In addressing US-Iran tensions, Fidan remarked on the potential paths of either diplomacy or warfare based on the decisions of involved nations. He underscored the importance of dialogue without compromising other countries' rights and addressed the global impact of maritime disruptions on energy supplies and trade.

Amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Fidan called for an immediate ceasefire and peace agreement while advocating for the restoration of maritime security in the Black Sea. He reiterated Türkiye's commitment to facilitating solutions for grain and energy supplies affected by the conflict.

Fidan also condemned anti-Türkiye rhetoric in Israel's election campaigns and reaffirmed Türkiye's support for Libya's stability, emphasizing constructive dialogue with Egypt and international efforts to unify Libya's military under a national framework.