Istanbul: Trkiye is firmly against any military intervention targeting Iran, as emphasized by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Fidan urged Tehran to address its internal issues independently, highlighting the economic struggles stemming from existing policies as a significant concern. The minister voiced this position during discussions with journalists in Istanbul, indicating no appetite among certain countries for hostility towards Iran's regime.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan critiqued recent statements by the US president and highlighted the absence of a strong preference for ground force deployment under Donald Trump's policies. Addressing the issue of sanctions, Fidan noted that Iran's large and dynamic population faces challenges due to restricted economic services, potentially leading to misunderstandings of economic hardships as ideological uprisings against the regime.
Fidan underscored the importance of Iran to Trkiye, stressing that resolving Tehran's issues with certain actors would benefit Ankara. He expressed hope for resolution through diplomatic channels, urging Iran to tackle its global nuclear matters through diplomacy to alleviate economic challenges.
In discussing regional threats, Fidan identified the YPG/SDF as a persistent threat to both the region and Trkiye. He clarified that Trkiye's issue lies not with the Kurdish people in Syria but with a terror group operating under various names in multiple countries. Fidan referenced the March 10 agreement, which Trkiye claims the SDF has not fully observed, and warned of potential Syrian government action if dialogue fails.
Fidan also addressed the potential role of Turkish naval forces in the Black Sea if a peace agreement is reached between Ukraine and Russia. He outlined the components of such an agreement and the responsibility entrusted to Trkiye under current planning to oversee the Black Sea region's security.
Regarding the Gaza peace plan, Fidan criticized Israel's lack of genuine commitment, asserting that Israel's ultimate aim is the removal of Palestinians from Gaza. He emphasized the importance of the Palestinian Technical Committee assuming governance, with the establishment of a Peace Council and executive body as top priorities.
Fidan further discussed potential security alliances, stressing the importance of regional cooperation for stability. He mentioned ongoing talks with Saudi Arabia and Egypt but noted that no agreements have been finalized.
On the CAATSA sanctions, Fidan reiterated Trkiye's efforts to have them lifted, following an understanding between President Trump and President Erdogan. He emphasized the political will to resolve this issue and expressed hope for progress.
Fidan concluded by asserting Trkiye's rejection of encirclement attempts in the eastern Mediterranean and reaffirming support for territorial integrity in Yemen and Somalia. He also highlighted the strategic significance of the Zangezur Corridor for the Middle Corridor and expressed optimism for continued momentum in Trkiye-Armenia normalization efforts.