Istanbul- June 23, 2025: The OIC session reached a pivotal moment with its 51st Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Istanbul on June 21–22. The summit convened emergency discussions at Iran’s request. Ministers stressed the need to reform the OIC and boost its global impact. They agreed to uphold multilateralism, regional stability, and the rules-based international order.
The Palestinian issue took center stage. Delegates reiterated support for a Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders and East Jerusalem as its capital. They condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank as tantamount to “genocide and forced displacement.” The ministers called for a permanent ceasefire, urgent implementation of UNSC Resolution 2735, and expanded humanitarian aid. They also backed UNRWA funding and urged a UN high-level conference co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France.
Broad Condemnations and Unified Positions
The session condemned Israeli strikes on Iran, Syria, and Lebanon. It demanded accountability and urged swift de-escalation. Moreover, it expressed solidarity with Pakistan regarding recent cross-border strikes. The ministers stressed bilateral dialogue with India and recommitted to the Indus Waters Treaty. They also reaffirmed their support for self-determination in Jammu & Kashmir and denounced India’s human rights violations.
Further statements included backing Turkish Cypriot rights in Greece, encouraging peaceful resolution between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and supporting the rights of Rohingya Muslims and expelled Azerbaijanis. They also condemned attempts to destabilize Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Ministers denounced Islamophobia and religious discrimination. They called on the international community to combat hate speech and prevent the misuse of anti-terrorism measures. Economically, the session welcomed COMCEC development plans and encouraged early recovery for Syria. It endorsed Türkiye-IsDB projects and supported Syria’s return to regional cooperation.
Jordan received praise for protecting holy sites in Al-Quds, and participants highlighted the legal guardianship of Al-Aqsa endowments. The summit confirmed the OIC’s mediation role and thanked non-permanent UN Security Council members—Algeria, Pakistan, and Somalia. It also announced the next Islamic Summit in Azerbaijan in 2026.
Diplomatic Moves and UN Backing
During the summit, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister DPM Ishaq Dar met several counterparts to foster political, trade, and cultural cooperation. Embedded post:
Bangladesh reaffirmed its support and underscored regional connectivity.
At Iran’s and Pakistan’s urging, the UN Security Council agreed to hold an emergency meeting. China and Russia also voiced support for the session. This step could influence global action on current crises.
In closing, the OIC session delivered a unified message: global Islamic concerns demand urgent responses. The summit not only highlighted shared regional challenges but also forged stronger diplomatic and policy alignment among member states.
