Egypt on Thursday warned that any attempt to obstruct maritime navigation in the Middle East could trigger widespread disruptions in global markets and serious consequences for the international economy.

Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty made the remarks in a phone call with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan, emphasising the importance of securing strategic maritime straits as vital arteries for global trade and energy supplies.

The ministers also stressed the need to de-escalate regional tensions and prioritise diplomacy.

Mr Abdelatty condemned any attempts to target Türkiye or violate its sovereignty, calling on parties to show restraint to prevent the region from sliding into chaos.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Turkish defence ministry said NATO air and missile defence units intercepted a ballistic projectile allegedly launched from Iran, tracked across Iraqi and Syrian airspace before approaching Turkish territory.

The strike followed joint US-Israeli attacks on Tehran and other Iranian cities on Saturday, which killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, his family members, senior Iranian commanders, and civilians.
Iran has since launched missile and drone attacks across the region targeting Israeli and US assets. 

(Xinhua/NAN)