OIC Council of Foreign Ministers Convenes in Istanbul, Leaders Urge Unity and Condemn Israeli Aggression

Strategic Insights -

The 51st session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states has begun in Istanbul, with around 40 officials from over 40 countries participating in the two-day session. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered a speech during the opening, condemning Israel's actions in Gaza and urging the international community to recognize the State of Palestine. Erdogan emphasized the need for unity among OIC member states in the face of external pressures, warning that failure to do so would result in serving the interests of others.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 51st session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers is being held in Istanbul with representatives from over 40 countries in attendance.
  • Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned Israel's actions in Gaza, stating that the country had turned Gaza into "massive rubble" and was pushing the region into instability.
  • Erdogan emphasized the importance of a two-state solution and urged the international community to recognize the State of Palestine.
  • He also called for unity among OIC member states and warned that failure to do so would result in serving the interests of others.
  • Turkish President Erdogan described Israel's attacks on Iran as coinciding with intensified negotiations over Iran's nuclear program and vowed that Turkey would not allow the establishment of a "new Sykes-Picot order" in the region.
  • Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that Turkey would continue to amplify the voice of the Islamic world and prioritize global justice and opposition to injustice during its presidency of the OIC.

Statistics:

  • Approximately 40 officials from over 40 countries are participating in the two-day session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers.
  • Erdogan stated that Israel has turned Gaza into "massive rubble," with infrastructure, including healthcare facilities, schools, and mosques, severely damaged or destroyed.
  • The attacks on Gaza have led to the deaths of numerous people, including those waiting in aid lines for basic necessities like food and medicine.
  • Erdogan emphasized the need for urgent recognition of the State of Palestine, with several countries expected to join the call for Palestinian statehood in the near future.

Sources:

  • Wam, "51st session of OIC council of foreign ministers begins in Istanbul", 21 June 2025
  • Anadolu Agency, "Turkey ready to take on responsibilities of OIC Presidency," (no date provided)