Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stepped up diplomatic efforts to defuse the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, holding phone calls on Monday with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s readiness to help de-escalate tensions, warned of the dangers of a wider regional war, and urged all sides to return to dialogue and diplomacy.
In his phone call with Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian, Erdogan discussed the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. Erdogan said Türkiye is ready to play a facilitating role to help de-escalate the conflict and support a return to nuclear negotiations, according to the Türkiye's Communications Directorate.
The Turkish leader noted that he has been in contact with various leaders amid the ongoing conflict. Erdogan also emphasised the importance Ankara places on preserving peace and stability in the region.
Phone call with Putin
Erdogan also held a phone conversation with Putin to discuss the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and broader regional issues.
The Turkish President warned that the cycle of violence triggered by Israel’s attacks on Iran threatens the security of the entire region, and criticised Israel’s disregard for international law, describing it as a clear threat to the global order.
Erdogan stressed the urgent need for diplomacy, emphasising that the region cannot endure another war.
Highlighting Türkiye’s active diplomatic efforts, the Turkish leader underscored that resolving the issues with Iran requires dialogue and urged all parties to promptly return to the negotiating table.
Erdogan also cautioned against allowing the recent attacks to divert attention from the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, warning that Israel may attempt to create irreversible situations on the ground.
President Putin echoed Erdogan’s concerns, expressing his agreement on the necessity of an immediate ceasefire and creating space for diplomatic solutions.
Growing tensions in the region
Regional tension has escalated since Friday after Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on multiple sites across Iran, including military and nuclear facilities, prompting Tehran to launch retaliatory strikes.
Israeli authorities said that at least 24 people were killed and hundreds injured in Iranian missile attacks since Friday.
Iran, for its part, said that at least 224 people were killed and over 1,000 others wounded in the Israeli assault.
