Islamic quartet urges US, Iran to prioritize Gulf security in talks

Mediating nations Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have called on the United States and Iran to ensure the security of Gulf and Levantine countries is central to their ongoing negotiations. Meeting in Cairo, the foreign ministers of the quartet emphasized that the current positive momentum in talks must translate into concrete considerations for regional stability.

In a joint statement following their meeting, the ministers stressed the importance of addressing the concerns of nations most affected by the conflict. They specifically highlighted the need to safeguard the security and stability of Arab states in the Persian Gulf and the Levant region, which includes Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. The ultimate goal, they stated, is to foster collective security and long-term regional stability.

The quartet welcomed the recent memorandum of understanding signed between Washington and Tehran, describing it as a significant advancement and a constructive step toward de-escalation. They acknowledged that the conflict posed substantial risks to regional security, energy markets, international shipping routes, global supply chains, and trade.

This meeting marked the fourth gathering of the quartet, which has been actively involved in advising on mediation efforts between the US and Iran. The ministers also commended the mediation efforts of Pakistan and Qatar in achieving the recent understanding, recognizing the complex diplomatic landscape they are navigating to find a lasting, verifiable, and mutually acceptable solution to outstanding issues.