European, Mideast foreign ministers hold talks in Istanbul

Summary

Foreign ministers from eight European and Middle Eastern countries are meeting in Istanbul to discuss the Strait of Hormuz, the war in Ukraine and escalating crises across the Middle East. Turkey is hosting the unprecedented talks as regional tensions rise over Houthi attacks, Saudi security and freedom of navigation.

Key Points
  • Foreign ministers from Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Egypt are gathering in Istanbul for unprecedented talks on regional crises.
  • The meeting will focus on the Strait of Hormuz, Yemen, the Palestinians and efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
  • Britain and France have backed Saudi Arabia amid Houthi attacks and broader instability in the region.
  • Turkey says the talks reflect a push for regional ownership and cooperation rather than outside intervention.
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