RIYADH: Foreign ministers from several regional countries have called on Iran to immediately cease its military actions and reduce tensions, following a high-level meeting in Riyadh.
In a joint statement issued after the meeting, representatives from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, and United Arab Emirates urged Tehran to immediately stop ongoing attacks, end support, funding, and arming of proxy groups in Arab states, and avoid threats or actions that could disrupt maritime security.
Special emphasis was placed on keeping key waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb open and secure for international shipping.
The ministers condemned what they described as escalating Iranian strikes involving ballistic missiles and drones targeting civilian infrastructure, including oil facilities, airports, and residential areas, stressing that such actions violate international law and threaten both regional and global stability.
The statement also criticized Israel for its military operations in Lebanon and broader expansionist policies in the region.
The meeting highlighted a growing consensus among participating nations on the need for a coordinated response. While no concrete military action was announced, ministers reaffirmed their right to self-defense under international law and signaled readiness to take necessary measures if attacks continue.
Speaking after the meeting, Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud warned that patience in the Gulf is not unlimited and indicated that regional powers possess significant capabilities to respond if required.
Despite strong rhetoric, the joint statement did not clearly outline enforcement mechanisms or timelines for action, reflecting both unity in concern and caution in escalation.
