Ishaq Dar Likely to Attend High-Level OIC Session in Jeddah
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has announced an extraordinary meeting of its Council of Foreign Ministers to address Israel’s actions in Gaza. The meeting will be held in Jeddah on January 10. It comes amid growing concern across the Muslim world over Israel’s ongoing military operations and humanitarian violations in the Palestinian territory.
Diplomatic sources confirmed that Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, is expected to attend the emergency session. The meeting aims to formulate a collective response to what the OIC describes as unlawful actions and atrocities committed by Israel in Gaza. Member states are expected to review the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation and discuss possible diplomatic and political measures.
The extraordinary session reflects the urgency felt by OIC members. Gaza continues to face severe destruction, civilian casualties, and shortages of food, fuel, and medical supplies. Many Islamic countries have called for immediate international intervention and accountability. The Jeddah meeting is seen as a critical platform to amplify these demands on the global stage.
Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland Also on Agenda
In addition to Gaza, the OIC meeting will also discuss Israel’s reported recognition of Somaliland. The issue has raised alarm among several Muslim-majority nations, particularly those in Africa. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but remains unrecognized by the international community.
Sources said Ishaq Dar will strongly reaffirm Pakistan’s full support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Pakistan has consistently backed Somalia’s position at international forums. Dar’s stance is expected to align with the broader OIC consensus, which supports Somalia’s unity and rejects any unilateral recognition efforts.
The Somaliland issue is likely to generate intense debate. Many OIC members view Israel’s move as destabilizing for the Horn of Africa region. They fear it could set a dangerous precedent and escalate regional tensions. The discussion will aim to build a unified response and prevent further diplomatic fallout.
Bilateral Meetings and Regional Stability Concerns
On the sidelines of the extraordinary meeting, Ishaq Dar is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with foreign ministers of other Islamic countries. These discussions will focus on coordination strategies, humanitarian assistance for Gaza, and strengthening diplomatic pressure on Israel.
The OIC leadership believes the Gaza crisis has broader implications for regional and global stability. Continued violence risks fueling extremism and undermining peace efforts across the Middle East. Member states are expected to call for an immediate ceasefire, protection of civilians, and unhindered humanitarian access.
The January 10 meeting highlights the OIC’s growing role in addressing major geopolitical crises affecting the Muslim world. Its outcome may influence future diplomatic initiatives at the United Nations and other international platforms.
