A joint statement from 20 countries including Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan and UAE has condemned the escalating conflict in the Middle East, blaming Israel`s actions against Iran for fueling regional instability.

The countries urged for immediate diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and to restore peace.

“There’s an imperative need to halt Israeli hostilities against Iran, which come during a time of increasing tension in the Middle East, and to work towards de-escalation, to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire and restoration of calm,” read the statement.

The statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Algeria, Bahrain, Brunei, Chad, the Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, and Mauritania.

Other signatories included Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Turkey, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.

These countries collectively rejected the use of military force and emphasized diplomacy as the only viable solution.

They also stressed the need for a Middle East free of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction, urging all parties to avoid targeting nuclear sites and to ensure the safety of maritime routes in international waters.

India Evacuates Citizens from Iran

Amid the worsening regional tensions, India has begun evacuating some of its nationals from Tehran, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday. The government did not specify the number of evacuees but noted that some Indian students had been assisted in leaving Iran via Armenia. Others capable of arranging their own transport were advised to leave the region promptly.

Source: AP/UNB