The 51st Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) concluded in Istanbul, Türkiye, with the adoption of the Istanbul Declaration, addressing a wide range of political, humanitarian, and regional issues facing the Muslim world.
The OIC member states reaffirmed their unity and called for stronger collective action amid growing international instability and shifting global power dynamics. The ministers emphasized the need for the OIC to play a more prominent role in promoting regional and global peace.
Palestinian Cause Remains Central:
The OIC reiterated its unwavering support for the Palestinian people, calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The ministers condemned Israel’s 19-month-long military campaign in Gaza, describing it as genocide and a systematic effort to erase the Palestinian cause.
Ceasefire and Reconstruction:
The declaration urged the implementation of a permanent ceasefire in Gaza under UN Security Council Resolution 2735 and supported the Arab-Islamic plan for the early recovery and reconstruction of the Gaza Strip. The OIC called for the protection of Palestinian civilians and the immediate opening of crossings to allow unrestricted humanitarian aid.
Condemnation of Israeli Attacks on Iran and Neighboring Countries:
The OIC strongly condemned recent Israeli attacks on Iran, Syria, and Lebanon, calling them grave violations of international law. The declaration emphasized the need to de-escalate tensions and announced the establishment of a Ministerial Contact Group to pursue peaceful resolutions.
Solidarity with Pakistan:
Expressing concern over recent escalations in South Asia, the OIC condemned strikes on Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir and called for restraint and adherence to bilateral agreements, including the Indus Waters Treaty. The ministers also reiterated support for the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination.
Support for Muslim Communities Globally:
The OIC condemned Islamophobia, rising hate speech, and systematic discrimination against Muslim minorities, including the Rohingya in Myanmar, Turkish Cypriots, and the Muslim population in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The declaration expressed solidarity with oppressed Muslim communities and emphasized the need for international accountability.
Regional Developments:
The ministers welcomed progress in the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia and stressed support for Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. They also acknowledged efforts by Syria’s interim government to reintegrate the country into the international system.
Religious Heritage Protection:
The OIC praised Jordan’s custodianship of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Al-Quds (Jerusalem) and reaffirmed the significance of preserving the status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Future Engagement:
The declaration highlighted the importance of the upcoming Islamic Summit Conference to be hosted by Azerbaijan in 2026 as an opportunity to further strengthen unity and cooperation within the Islamic world.
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