Iran's acting defense minister has called for a joint security mechanism among Islamic countries, saying the presence of extra-regional forces has become a source of insecurity.

The Turkish president vowed that Ankara would continue efforts to advance lasting peace in the region.

A proposed trade and transport corridor being advanced by Turkey and Saudi Arabia has raised concerns in Israeli-occupied territories, amid increasingly strained relations between Ankara and Tel Aviv.

Northern Cyprus authorities arrest an Israeli man attempting to smuggle four human embryos.

“These attacks, including assaults on vessels and the arbitrary detention of activists, constitute a clear violation of international law and international humanitarian law,” the countries said.

Turkey has condemned Israel’s attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla, calling the action a “new act of piracy”.

The Turkish president says his government is making the “necessary appeals and initiatives” to extend the ceasefire.