Erdoğan Urges Diplomacy in Iran-Israel Crisis, Warns of Regional Disaster

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called on the United States and regional leaders to de-escalate rising tensions between Iran and Israel, warning that continued conflict could ignite a wider regional catastrophe. In a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, Erdoğan stressed that diplomacy is the only viable path forward, according to a statement by Türkiye’s Communications Directorate.

“This Region Can’t Afford Another War,” Erdoğan Says

During the call, Erdoğan welcomed Trump’s recent moderating remarks, emphasizing that urgent steps are needed to prevent a disaster that could engulf the entire region. He noted that military escalation had already triggered serious humanitarian and economic consequences, and warned of irreversible harm unless restraint is exercised.

Türkiye Offers to Mediate in Renewed Nuclear Talks

Erdoğan also reiterated Ankara’s longstanding position on the Iranian nuclear issue, declaring:

“Türkiye is ready to contribute in every possible way, including acting as a facilitator.”

He stressed that renewed diplomatic negotiations are essential to resolve disputes between Iran and the West, and warned that recent Israeli military actions risk derailing such progress.

Erdoğan Warns of Civilian Harm and Economic Fallout

According to the Turkish leader, Israel’s military operations have launched a cycle of violence harming civilians and economies on both sides. He also expressed concern that the crisis may distract from the ongoing humanitarian tragedy in Gaza and further destabilize an already fragile Middle Eastern balance of power.

Calls With Regional Leaders: A Push for Calm

In a string of diplomatic phone calls with regional counterparts, Erdoğan repeated similar warnings:

• To Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, he stressed the need to shield Iraq from spillover violence and guard against extremist threats.

• Speaking to Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Erdoğan said Israel’s actions threaten regional peace and could sabotage efforts to restart nuclear diplomacy.

• In a conversation with Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, Erdoğan warned that the Middle East “cannot endure another war,” especially as Israeli strikes risk undermining scheduled nuclear talks.

Türkiye Calls for Calm and a Return to Talks

Türkiye’s Communications Directorate affirmed that Ankara will continue diplomatic efforts to encourage restraint and revive negotiations. Erdoğan’s message to all leaders was clear:

“This is a moment where calm, not escalation, must prevail.”