The 51st session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) concluded in Istanbul with the adoption of the Istanbul Declaration, outlining a unified stance on major political, humanitarian, and regional challenges facing the Muslim world. The member states stressed the urgency of collective action in response to growing international instability and pledged to enhance the OIC’s global influence.
At the heart of the declaration was a reaffirmation of unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. The ministers condemned Israel’s prolonged military campaign in Gaza, labeling it as genocide and an attempt to erase Palestinian identity. They backed the creation of a sovereign Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, while urging the implementation of a permanent ceasefire and reconstruction efforts under UN oversight.
Also Read: OIC Urges Upholding Indus Waters Treaty Amid India-Pak tensions
The declaration also strongly denounced Israeli attacks on Iran, Syria, and Lebanon, calling them serious breaches of international law. A Ministerial Contact Group was established to promote peaceful conflict resolution in the region. In South Asia, the OIC expressed concern over violations against Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, reiterating support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.
Further emphasis was placed on global Muslim solidarity, with the OIC condemning Islamophobia, hate speech, and the persecution of Muslim minorities in Myanmar, Cyprus, and the Balkans. The declaration also acknowledged developments in regions like Azerbaijan and Syria, and praised efforts to protect religious heritage in Jerusalem.
