Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt condemn attacks against the kingdom as regional and European ministers discuss security challenges and diplomatic solutions in Istanbul.
ISTANBUL, TÜRKİYE — WEB DESK | October 24, 2026
The foreign ministers of Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt have reaffirmed their solidarity with Saudi Arabia and support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity following attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement.
The commitment was expressed during the sixth meeting of the Regional Four (R4) group in Istanbul on Friday, October 23, 2026. The ministers reviewed developments since their previous meeting in New York and discussed regional security challenges, ongoing conflicts and diplomatic efforts to promote stability.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar represented Islamabad at the meeting alongside Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the four countries condemned the Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and reiterated their support for the kingdom’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They also discussed strengthening regional coordination and continuing diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace and security.
R4 Countries Condemn Attacks on Saudi Arabia
The R4 group comprises Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Its members have increased diplomatic consultations amid heightened tensions and security concerns across the Middle East.
The countries have previously condemned attacks attributed to the Houthi movement, including those targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. In a joint statement issued on October 11, the four governments described the attacks as violations of Saudi sovereignty and territorial integrity and called for an immediate and unconditional halt to hostilities.
The statement also reaffirmed support for legitimate measures taken by Saudi Arabia to protect its territory, citizens and residents, in accordance with the United Nations Charter and international law.
Eight Countries Discuss Regional Security in Istanbul
The R4 meeting was followed by a wider ministerial gathering involving the four R4 countries and France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom, collectively referred to in the meeting’s reporting as the E4 group.
The eight countries discussed the security situation across the Middle East, the economic and social consequences of regional tensions and the importance of intensifying diplomatic engagement.
The discussions also covered the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important maritime passage for international trade and energy supplies. Participants agreed to maintain communication and continue consultations on regional developments.
French and British officials highlighted the importance of de-escalation and restoring freedom of navigation, while the wider meeting provided a platform for European and Middle Eastern governments to coordinate their diplomatic approaches.
Ishaq Dar Highlights Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role
During the discussions, Ishaq Dar briefed his counterparts on Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement aimed at reducing tensions, preventing further instability and promoting peace.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office said the participating ministers agreed to continue consultations and maintain diplomatic coordination in response to regional challenges.
Dar also met German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the sidelines of the Istanbul gathering. The two discussed Pakistan-Germany relations, bilateral cooperation and international developments, emphasising the importance of dialogue and sustained diplomatic engagement.
Pakistan has continued to advocate diplomatic efforts to address regional disputes and prevent further escalation, while coordinating with its R4 partners on security issues affecting the Middle East.
Diplomatic Coordination Remains a Priority
The Istanbul meetings reflect efforts by regional and European governments to strengthen consultation as security concerns persist across the Middle East.
The R4 countries reiterated their support for Saudi Arabia, while the wider eight-country meeting emphasised continued dialogue, regional cooperation and diplomatic engagement.
Although the meetings did not establish a comprehensive resolution to the region’s conflicts, participating governments agreed to maintain communication and continue working towards greater security, stability and freedom of navigation.
