On Friday, foreign ministers from eight European and Middle Eastern countries gathered in a unique meeting in Istanbul to discuss the Strait of Hormuz and various crises in the Middle East.
Review of Regional Crises
In this meeting, the foreign ministers of the United Kingdom, France, and Germany (E3 group) along with Italy engaged in discussions with their counterparts from the R4 group, which includes Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt, regarding issues related to the Palestinians, developments in Yemen, and the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, ways to end the Russia-Ukraine war were also on the agenda.
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The discussions began at a hotel in Istanbul overlooking the Bosphorus Strait. The office of the UK Foreign Secretary, Ed Miliband, announced that the meeting would specifically focus on the Strait of Hormuz and the situation in Saudi Arabia. Miliband will emphasize the need for a diplomatic solution to the Hormuz crisis that restores maritime rights and freedoms.
Emphasis on Regional Cooperation
Turkey's Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, is hosting this meeting and has stated that these efforts aim to strengthen Turkey's role in the region, including through the defense agreement of the "Makkah Defense Coalition" established in August with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Fidan has also stressed the importance of regional cooperation, stating, "Sustainable solutions cannot be imposed from outside."
Following an escalation of attacks by Iranian-backed Houthis, Saudi Arabia has been forced to close its main airport and postpone an important investment conference. Riyadh has sought the support of its allies since the beginning of this crisis. In an unexpected visit, President Emmanuel Macron announced that French forces would assist in protecting the Yanbu Red Sea oil terminal. Additionally, the UK has recently announced that it will send fighter jets to help Saudi Arabia defend against Houthi threats.
At the conclusion of this meeting, Fidan expects to emphasize the need for increased international pressure on Israel due to the expansion of settlements and what Ankara calls "established terrorism." He will also reiterate Turkey's support for Saudi Arabia's security against Houthi attacks and stress the necessity of maintaining freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb.
Attention to the Black Sea will also be discussed in this meeting, as Fidan will highlight Turkey's efforts to prevent the spread of the Russia-Ukraine war to the region.
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