Erdogan Opposes New Strikes on Iran and Offers Turkey as Mediator
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan voiced opposition to new strikes against Iran during a press briefing, offering Turkey's mediation. He also discussed readiness to host Russia-Ukraine peace talks and regional security.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stated that his country opposes any new wave of strikes against Iran or further destabilization in the Middle East. Speaking to journalists aboard his aircraft while returning from a visit to Azerbaijan, Erdogan revealed that he conveyed Ankara's concerns to US President-elect Donald Trump, offering Turkey's mediation to open doors for diplomacy.
"We do not want to see a new wave of attacks on Iran that would drag the entire region into further instability. We reiterate on every occasion that problems can be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy," the Turkish president said, according to the Anadolu Agency. Erdogan added that he hopes common sense will prevail and that regional actors will step back from the brink of the precipice, warning that the cost of war affects a vast geography stretching from Turkey to the Gulf states, Iraq, Syria, Europe, and Asia.
Stance on the Russia-Ukraine War
Addressing the protracted conflict in Eastern Europe, Erdogan emphasized Turkey's intensive efforts to end the hostilities and expressed appreciation for Donald Trump's approach to achieving peace. He noted that Istanbul remains fully prepared to host peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
"We stated that we stand for a just peace. The bloodshed must stop immediately," Erdogan stressed, recalling his communications with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Regional Issues and Counterterrorism
Turning to Cyprus, the Turkish leader called for international recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, stating that the reality of two separate states on the island must be accepted. He also dismissed claims of any rift in relations with Azerbaijan, highlighting strong bilateral solidarity and joint energy projects.
Finally, Erdogan addressed ongoing counterterrorism operations against the PKK, declaring that Turkey is fully determined to eradicate the threat. "Our nation and state have decided to solve the problem of terrorism that has cost us half a century. There will be no turning back," he affirmed.
