Iraq calls for emergency meeting of Arab FMs over regional tensions

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein on Wednesday called for an emergency meeting of Arab foreign ministers on the sidelines of the upcoming Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) conference in Istanbul to address regional challenges.

Hussein put forward the proposal during a phone conversation with his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty, according to a statement by the Iraqi Foreign Ministry.

"The aim of the proposed meeting is to coordinate Arab positions in light of the rapid developments and to address the current challenges with a spirit of common responsibility," the statement said.

The two sides discussed the latest developments in the region, particularly the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict and its implications on regional security and stability, it said.

Also on Wednesday, Hussein received a phone call from his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan, during which they underscored the importance of the OIC meeting in light of the rapidly evolving regional circumstances and the challenges facing the countries of the region, according to a separate statement.

The two ministers emphasized the need to strengthen diplomatic coordination among Islamic countries to ensure regional stability and to prevent further deterioration of the situation, it added.

The 51st session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the OIC is scheduled to be held in Istanbul on Saturday and Sunday, according to Turkish authorities.