Erdoğan Launches Diplomatic Push Over Iran‑Related Tension

Erdoğan spoke with Donald Trump to discuss the latest situation in Iran and the Gulf region, as well as ongoing developments, Turkey's Communications Directorate said on March 1.

The calls came after a joint U.S.-Israeli military campaign launched on Feb. 28 killed several senior Iranian officials, including Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tehran retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Gulf countries. Three U.S. service members were killed and five others seriously wounded.

In a phone call with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Erdoğan extended his well-wishes following attacks on Qatar and received information about the situation there.

The president also expressed condolences to UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over attacks targeting their countries, discussing the broader regional situation.

In his conversation with Mohammed bin Salman, Erdoğan said the conflict "could have serious regional and global security consequences unless necessary intervention is made." He said Turkey and Saudi Arabia have exerted serious efforts to resolve disputes through dialogue and that "giving diplomacy a chance remains the most rational course."

Erdoğan also spoke with Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmed Al Jaber, expressing his sorrow and conveying well wishes over attacks on the country.

During a call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Erdoğan discussed the attacks on Iran and the subsequent conflict, reiterating that Ankara calls on all parties to return to diplomacy and negotiations and stands ready to support peace efforts.

He underlined the importance of close coordination between Turkey and the European Union during the process.

Separately, Erdoğan shared a message of condolence on in a social media post for Khamenei.

“I extend my condolences to the brotherly people of Iran, convey my sympathies on behalf of my country and nation, and wish Allah's mercy upon Khamenei," Erdoğan wrote.

"As Turkey, we will firmly pursue our efforts to ensure that the people of Iran, along with all our friends, brothers and sisters in the region, achieve the peace and stability they deserve, bring an end to the ongoing conflict in our region and return to diplomacy."

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan also held calls with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, diplomatic sources said, as Ankara pushed for steps to contain the crisis.

Israel and the United States launched strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran responded with drone and missile attacks, raising fears of a wider regional conflict.