At Iraq’s Initiative: Arab Foreign Ministers Hold Emergency Meeting in Istanbul – Fuad Hussein Warns of Expansion of War and Calls for Effective Arab Mechanisms to Address Regional Challenges

The Emergency Meeting of Arab Foreign Ministers was held on Friday, June 20, 2025, in Istanbul, Turkey, at the invitation of the Republic of Iraq. The meeting addressed the repercussions of the recent attacks by the Israeli entity on the Islamic Republic of Iran, and their implications for regional security and stability.

The Iraqi delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein, who delivered a statement emphasizing the urgency of the situation. In addition the Minister indicated that Iraq had called for this extraordinary meeting due to the gravity of the ongoing developments, highlighting that Iraq is closely monitoring developments given its geographical and political proximity to the center of escalation.

Minister Hussein stated that “ the threat extends beyond Iran, posing risks to the entire region, and added that we are facing major questions and challenges that require decisive collective poiitions”, and urged concrete steps to influence the stance of European countries and engage directly with the United States.

As well Minister Hussein noted the spreading of the conflict, including attacks on nuclear, oil, and gas facilities, and warned of the implications of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a development that could remove up to five million barrels of oil per day from the global market, thereby deepening the global economic crisis.

“We are facing an unconventional war, and no country in the region is immune from its consequences,” Minister Hussein said, underscoring the importance of establishing joint communication and coordination mechanisms and continuous assessment of the situation, in light of the region’s fragility and the growing risks. 

The Minister also called on the UN Security Council and the Secretary-General to assume their responsibilities in maintaining international peace and security, commending the role of the Sultanate of Oman in mediating between Iran and the United States and encouraged the resumption of these diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions.

At the end or the meeting, Minister Hussein reaffirmed Iraq’s categorical rejection of any violation of its airspace or sovereignty and condemned the use of Iraqi territory in settling regional scores. As well he held the Israel entity fully accountable—both legally and politically—for its aggressive actions.

The participating Arab states commended Iraq’s initiative in convening this meeting in this critical situation, recognizing its pivotal role in fostering Arab unity and advancing a collective position aimed at de-escalation and preserving regional peace and stability.