Riyadh: Turkey and Saudi Arabia have jointly called on the international community to exert pressure on Israeli occupation authorities to maintain the ceasefire in Gaza, protect civilians, refrain from targeting vital infrastructure, and adhere to international legal standards.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, this call was part of a joint statement issued at the end of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Saudi Arabia, where he met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Both nations emphasized the need to completely end the occupation of the Gaza Strip, enable the Palestinian National Authority to resume its responsibilities, and establish an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with international law and the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.

The joint statement also expressed deep concern about the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, ongoing Israeli attacks, and obstructions to humanitarian aid. It highlighted the importance of intensifying humanitarian efforts and ensuring open crossings to deliver essential aid.

Both countries expressed support for the “Peace Council” in alignment with US-led peace efforts, welcomed the second phase of the Gaza peace plan, and commended international efforts in these initiatives. They reaffirmed the role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and condemned Israeli demolitions of UNRWA buildings in Jerusalem, urging international action against these violations.

Turkey and Saudi Arabia stressed the crucial role of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in defending the Palestinian cause and supported dialogue and cooperation between Turkey and the League of Arab States. On Yemen, they affirmed support for the legitimate Yemeni government and Saudi efforts to resolve the crisis, while rejecting actions that threaten Yemen’s unity.

On other regional issues, both nations supported Somalia’s sovereignty, condemned any recognition of Somaliland by Israeli authorities, and rejected any actions undermining Somalia’s unity. They also reiterated their commitment to Sudan’s stability and rejected any entities operating outside legitimate state frameworks.

In Syria, the two countries appreciated international support for the Syrian government and emphasized the importance of a ceasefire, while condemning Israeli violations against Syrian sovereignty. They called for Israel’s withdrawal from occupied Syrian territories.

In bilateral relations, Turkey and Saudi Arabia agreed to enhance cooperation in petrochemicals, electricity, and renewable energy. They pledged to expedite studies on linking electricity grids and to collaborate on innovative hydrocarbon uses. Defense and security cooperation were also prioritized, with both sides agreeing to activate existing agreements and enhance security coordination.

These discussions mark a significant step in strengthening ties between Turkey and Saudi Arabia, with broader implications for regional stability and cooperation.