Foreign Ministers from the Regional Four (R4), France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom convened in Istanbul, Turkiye, on 24 October. The group discussed the US/Israel-Iran conflict and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, specifically highlighting the necessity of a negotiated two-state solution.
Maritime safety and freedom of navigation remained a priority as the officials reviewed escalated tensions in the Black Sea and the Straits of Hormuz and Bab El Mandeb. Commitments were made to continue contributing to diplomatic efforts that promote peace and stability while addressing the security, economic, and trade implications of regional issues.
A Foreign Office Spokesperson said, "The Ministers discussed various issues of regional and international importance, namely US/Israel-Iran conflict, Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the need for a negotiated two-state solution, the appalling Houthi militia attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Government of Yemen, safety and freedom of navigation, escalated tension in Straits of Hormuz and Bab El Mandeb and the Black Sea. They expressed their commitment to continue contributing towards diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond, and addressing the security, economic and trade implications of these issues." The ministers agreed to maintain this dialogue format to prevent future conflicts and advance regional stability.
