Libya, Türkiye, and Italy have coordinated their efforts to promote regional stability and international cooperation through a summit. The meeting aimed to find common ground that benefits the local population and supports global stability.
Malaysia is under pressure to host the GBC (Greater Cambodia Cooperation Treaty Organization) summit, as refusing to do so could cast doubt on its intentions and jeopardize Asean's credibility in conflict management. The international community, including President Donald Trump, is also weighing in, threatening punitive tariffs on Cambodia and Thailand if fighting resumes. With time running out, Malaysia must balance humility with firmness to salvage the peace process and avoid losing momentum towards a resolution.
Pakistani PMLN President Maryam Nawaz met Saudi Arabian Ambassador Nawaf Bin Saeed al-Maliki, discussing economic cooperation, defence partnership and unity of the Ummah. She expressed her commitment to strengthening relations with Saudi Arabia, citing mutual trust, shared values and long-standing brotherhood as the foundation. Pakistan seeks Saudi cooperation on trade agreements, including the GCC Free Trade Agreement, and has hosted 2.5 million Pakistanis in Saudi Arabia. Maryam also congratulated the nation on the launch of a new remote sensing satellite, praising its potential to provide timely warnings for disasters.
Multiple countries are set to recognize Palestine as a state during the upcoming UN General Assembly session, with Canada, Malta, and France making official announcements. The UK has announced its intention to recognize Palestine but with conditions, while 10 European Union countries have already recognized the state of Palestine. Israel's plan to annex the West Bank has sparked international concern, with Canada and France planning to recognize a Palestinian state before the UN. The US supports Israel, while Palestinians welcome international support for their decades-long quest for statehood. Recognition may strengthen Palestinian negotiating position in the long term, but its impact is uncertain. Some countries, like Australia, support a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine coexist in peace and security within internationally recognized borders.
To avoid underestimating opponents and escalating conflicts, world leaders should adopt an agnostic approach to negotiations, focusing on finding mutually beneficial solutions rather than trying to overpower the other side. This involves signaling a willingness to negotiate and give a good deal, acknowledging the opponent's power while avoiding a confrontational tone. By doing so, negotiators can create a safe space for open communication, where both parties share their interests and work towards a collaborative outcome.
US Senator Marco Rubio has described India as a "strategic partner" but also highlighted differences in their relationship, particularly regarding Russia ties. Rubio stated that while the US and India share common interests, they cannot align 100% on all issues. This nuanced view reflects the complexities of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that Sir Keir Starmer's pledge to recognize a Palestinian state may reduce chances of a ceasefire. The UK will only consider recognition if Israel allows aid into Gaza, stops annexing land in the West Bank, agrees to a ceasefire, and signs up to a long-term peace process within two months. France and Canada have also announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state, with Rubio calling the move "irrelevant".
The crisis in West Asia is prompting international responses, including sanctions from the US and EU, which are putting pressure on key powers like Saudi Arabia and the UAE to intensify diplomatic and humanitarian efforts. Saudi Arabia is taking a leading role by dispatching aid to Gaza, recognizing Palestinian statehood, and strengthening ties with the Palestinian Authority, positioning itself as a regional stabilizer. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi has secured exclusive rights to develop Sphere entertainment venues across MENA, furthering the Gulf's push into global cultural and tech markets.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui praised Pakistan's foreign policy under Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar as "effective and commendable" during a meeting with Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch. The foreign secretary briefed him on diplomatic initiatives to address tensions with India, including efforts to raise the issue of Palestine at international forums. Siddiqui expressed appreciation for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' performance, noting that Pakistan's diplomacy has successfully countered India's narrative on the Pahalgam incident.