President Erdogan hosts 9th Istanbul Mediation Conference while criticizing the UN

On October 23, 2026, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed the 9th Istanbul Mediation Conference, hosted by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The event brought together foreign ministers from Germany, Britain, France, Egypt, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia to discuss pressing global crises, including the war in Ukraine, the conflict in Gaza, instability in Yemen, and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

During his video address, President Erdogan strongly criticized the United Nations' decision-making structure, specifically challenging the veto power held by the five permanent members of the Security Council. He argued that it is unjust for the will of over 190 nations to depend on the decisions of five, claiming this system fails to meet the needs of millions facing humanitarian disasters. Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey's commitment to diplomatic mediation, citing successful initiatives such as prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine and various interventions across Africa.

The conference serves as a platform for Turkey to solidify its position as a key diplomatic intermediary. Ankara continues to emphasize its policy of keeping communication channels open even in the most severe conflicts, aiming to bridge gaps where other international institutions have allegedly failed to provide effective solutions.