Turkey Mediates Between US and Iran Amidst Escalating Middle East Conflict

Ankara is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, maintaining communication channels with both Washington and Tehran, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced Thursday. This comes as the conflict enters its thirteenth day, with Turkey expressing concerns about regional stability.

Turkey’s Diplomatic Role

Fidan stated that Turkey is in dialogue with both Iranian and American officials to explore possibilities for negotiation and bring an end to the hostilities. He emphasized the urgency of finding a resolution, stating, “This war must end as soon as possible.” However, he also acknowledged the complexities of the situation, noting the presence of “certain realities” and describing the initial attacks on Iran as “unprovoked, unjust and illegal,” while also condemning Iran’s attacks in the Persian Gulf.

Concerns Over Regional Instability

Turkey fears the conflict could escalate and spread throughout the region, leading to humanitarian, economic, and political repercussions. The country shares a 530-kilometer border with Iran, a region inhabited by a significant Kurdish population, raising concerns about potential spillover effects. Ankara is particularly worried about the impact on its economy, potential disruptions to energy supplies, and a decline in tourism.

Addressing Separate Conflicts

Fidan also called for an end to Israel’s bombing of Lebanon, highlighting the displacement of “nearly a million people.” He warned that the collapse of the Lebanese state would “profoundly affect the entire region,” particularly neighboring countries, and described the displacement of such a large population as “absolutely unacceptable.”

Recent Developments and Turkish Security

The conflict was triggered by strikes launched by Israel and the US against Iran on February 28, which were followed by retaliatory strikes from Iran against Israel and targets in the Persian Gulf. Simultaneously, tensions have risen between Hezbollah and Israel. NATO has reportedly intercepted two incoming Iranian missiles in recent days, demonstrating the alliance’s defensive posture. Turkey hosts critical NATO bases, including Incirlik Air Base and the Kurecik Radar Station, which have not yet been targeted by Iran.

Past Airspace Violations

Earlier this month, on March 10th, Foreign Minister Fidan protested a violation of Turkish airspace to his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi. While Iran denied responsibility, promising a thorough investigation, Turkey maintained that such violations are “unacceptable” and reserved the right to take “all necessary measures.”

Opposition to Separatist Agendas

Fidan also rejected any attempts to exploit the regional crisis to promote separatist agendas within Iran, stating Turkey’s opposition to any plan that could incite civil war or fuel ethnic or religious conflicts.

Sources: RFI, DW, Yeni Safak, Hurriyet Daily News