Ankara: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Thursday urged the international community to be prepared to respond "appropriately to Israel's potential acts of sabotage" following the recently declared ceasefire between the United States and Iran.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan emphasized Trkiye's commitment to supporting the establishment of a new security and peace framework in the region, including the normalization of relations between Iran and Gulf countries. Speaking at a joint news conference with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, Fidan assured that Trkiye is ready to play an active role in this process.
Fidan expressed concern over Israel's actions, warning that Tel Aviv is extending its military operations from Gaza to Lebanon, even before the ceasefire ink has dried. He highlighted the importance of the ceasefire between Washington and Tehran and suggested it could be extended if both parties agree, hoping it would lead to permanent peace.
Fidan also discussed the upcoming US-Iran talks expected to start on April 11, which will address complex issues like the nuclear file, uranium enrichment, the Strait of Hormuz, and regional security. He warned that Israel's airstrike on Lebanon post-ceasefire announcement is a provocation that could complicate negotiations.
During the meeting, Fidan and al-Shaibani discussed bilateral relations and regional cooperation, stressing the need to shield Syria from the broader regional crisis. Fidan reiterated Trkiye's support for Syria's stabilization and internal integration process, emphasizing that peace in the Middle East requires an end to Israel's expansionist policies.
Fidan called on the international community to focus on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, noting challenges in implementing the Gaza peace plan's first phase. He pointed out that Hamas had largely fulfilled its obligations, while Israel had not fully kept its promises. Further talks are planned in Cairo to address unresolved issues.
Despite challenges, Fidan reaffirmed Trkiye's commitment to diplomacy and dialogue, coordinating with partners to advance peace efforts. The US President Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran, following Tehran's proposal for negotiations, just before a deadline for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.