Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has issued a compelling appeal for renewed diplomatic engagement between the United States and Iran during a high-level meeting with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araqchi in Istanbul on Friday. The top diplomat emphasized the critical importance of restarting nuclear negotiations between the two nations to alleviate mounting regional tensions.
Fidan articulated Turkey’s firm opposition to foreign intervention in Iran while specifically addressing concerns about potential military action. The minister revealed intelligence indicating Israeli efforts to persuade Washington to launch strikes against Iranian facilities, warning that such actions would inflict ‘great harm’ on an already fragile region.
‘We observe Israel actively lobbying the US administration to authorize military operations against Iran,’ Fidan stated during a joint press conference. ‘We strongly hope American leadership will exercise prudent judgment and prevent this dangerous escalation from materializing.’
The diplomatic intervention comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Turkey positioning itself as a regional mediator advocating for peaceful conflict resolution. Fidan’s remarks underscore Ankara’s strategic interest in stabilizing the region and preventing further military confrontations that could disrupt regional security and economic stability.
This development follows recent cross-border attacks between Iran and Israel, and increasing international concern about Iran’s nuclear program. Turkey’s mediation attempt represents a significant diplomatic initiative to bridge the gap between the longstanding adversaries through dialogue rather than military action.