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Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz said Monday that wars sparked by Israeli provocations are putting severe pressure on global energy prices and national economies, urging Islamic countries to diversify energy sources and routes.
"As a result of the wars that started with Israel’s provocations, we are witnessing the pressure that world energy prices create on our economies," Yilmaz said at the opening of the 42nd Ministerial Meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s (OIC) Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation (COMCEC).
"This situation has once again demonstrated the importance of diversifying sources and routes, and strengthening regional cooperation, particularly in ensuring energy security," he added.
Yilmaz said attacks on Iran prompted by Israeli provocations and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to threaten regional stability and global prosperity.
"Here, too, the key to the solution is clear: diplomacy and dialogue must never be abandoned," he said, adding that Türkiye supports mediators’ efforts and contributes "at the highest level" to a negotiated solution.
He said the world economy has shifted toward protectionism, with growth and trade both projected at around 3% in 2026, below historical averages, and urged OIC members to boost trade among themselves, including through the OIC Trade Preferential System.
"Israel’s ongoing occupation and attacks in Palestine threaten the security of the Palestinian people and regional stability," Yilmaz said.
"At this stage, taking concrete steps that will pave the way for the reconstruction of Gaza, stop the genocide in occupied Palestinian territories, and sustain international efforts regardless of who comes to government in Israel is the primary responsibility of us all," he added.
He expressed sorrow over continued loss of life in Gaza despite the ceasefire achieved through diplomatic efforts led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
"In Yemen, Houthi attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable on any grounds. We will continue to support our ally, brotherly Saudi Arabia in this regard," he said, adding that Türkiye will work with partners to ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb.
"We will continue to support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia against Israel’s illegitimate and unlawful decision to recognize Somaliland," he noted.
Yilmaz also backed the Azerbaijan-Armenia normalization process and efforts to boost the Middle Corridor, voiced support for Syria’s unity and pledged continued humanitarian aid to Sudan.
He said the Fourth Türkiye-Africa Partnership Summit will be held in Libya on Dec. 8-9.
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