Istanbul: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced Ankara's firm opposition to any military intervention against Iran, emphasizing that Iran's internal issues should be resolved peacefully by its own people. Speaking alongside Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi at a press conference in Istanbul, Fidan reiterated Trkiye's stance against external military actions targeting Iran.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan's remarks came after a meeting with Araghchi, during which they discussed escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington. This follows US President Donald Trump's declaration of a 'massive armada' heading toward Iran and his call for negotiations. Iranian officials responded by stating that any US attack would provoke a 'swift and comprehensive' response, though they remain open to talks under 'fair, balanced, and noncoercive terms.'
Fidan stressed that regional stability and security are priorities for Trkiye's foreign policy. He highlighted the importance of 'regional ownership' in resolving issues, noting Trkiye's consistent advocacy for addressing regional problems internally. He expressed hope for a peaceful resolution in Iran and extended condolences for lives lost during recent protests.
Fidan further warned against attempts by the PKK terrorist organization to exploit recent developments, posing a threat to both Trkiye and Iran. He emphasized the need for joint efforts against the PKK and called for the resumption of Iran-US nuclear negotiations to reduce regional tensions and integrate Iran into the international economic system.
Reiterating Trkiye's opposition to military options, Fidan recalled President Erdogan's conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, where they advocated for negotiation and diplomacy over military interventions, drawing lessons from conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Gaza.
Fidan criticized Israel's efforts to prompt a US military strike against Iran, warning that such actions could harm regional stability. He urged the US to act prudently and called on Israel to end its destabilizing policies.
The meeting also addressed developments in Gaza, with Fidan highlighting Trkiye's role in achieving a ceasefire and its ongoing support for the Gaza peace plan. He outlined Trkiye's objectives for Gaza, emphasizing the need for local governance, unaltered borders, and reconstruction efforts focused on the needs of Gazans.
Fidan reaffirmed Trkiye's opposition to targeting Syria's unity and territorial integrity, noted an agreement on integration, and highlighted the importance of maintaining stability in Iraq. He expressed Trkiye and Iran's shared determination to work with Iraq's new government for regional security and prosperity.
Addressing US-Iran tensions, Fidan emphasized dialogue and resolution over deadlock or war. He shared insights from talks with US and regional counterparts and expressed hope for progress through continued dialogue.
Fidan concluded by advocating for a cooperative regional system respecting each country's borders and sovereignty. He criticized Israel's expansionist actions and called for an end to regional expansionism, stating that cooperation would serve regional peace and Israel's interests.