ISTANBUL – The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, declaring them a violation of international law and calling for an immediate end to hostilities. The 57-member bloc also announced the formation of a ministerial contact group aimed at facilitating diplomatic de-escalation between Iran and Israel.
During an emergency meeting held in Istanbul, OIC member states expressed deep concern over the regional instability caused by Israel’s strikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. The group reiterated Iran’s sovereign right to defend itself under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.
The OIC’s official statement described the strikes as “illegal acts of aggression” and urged the United Nations Security Council and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to take immediate notice and action. The group also called on Israel to accede to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and place its nuclear program under international monitoring.
In a significant diplomatic move, the OIC announced the establishment of a ministerial-level contact group. This group, comprising senior foreign ministers and diplomats, has been tasked with engaging relevant international stakeholders to help prevent further escalation and promote dialogue.
The decision comes amid mounting global fears of a wider Middle East conflict following recent exchanges of missile and drone attacks between Israel and Iran. The OIC emphasized the need for collective efforts to restore peace and stability to the region.
Several Gulf Arab states echoed the call for restraint, warning that continued escalation could severely destabilize regional security and economic conditions. The OIC resolution received wide support from its member nations, reflecting a shared concern over the broader implications of unchecked conflict in the region.
The newly formed contact group is expected to begin diplomatic consultations with key international players, including the United Nations, the European Union, and regional actors, in an effort to reduce tensions and avoid further military confrontation.
Reported by PakTribune News Desk
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