Erdogan offers to mediate between Iran and the US to end the tension
Amidst the intense diplomatic activity in the region, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan discussed today with his Iranian counterpart, Masoud Pezeshkian, ways to strengthen bilateral relations and mechanisms to reduce escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington. This came during a telephone call in which both leaders emphasized the need to prioritize dialogue given the delicate regional circumstances.
Turkish mediation initiative
According to a statement issued by the Turkish Presidency's Directorate of Communications, President Erdoğan expressed Ankara's full readiness to play the role of "facilitator" and impartial mediator between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States. Erdoğan explained that Turkey seeks to find common ground that contributes to resolving existing disputes and preventing further escalation in the region, which could negatively impact regional and international stability.
Araqchi's visit and a crucial timing
These telephone conversations coincide with tangible diplomatic activity on the ground, as the presidential statement indicated that Erdoğan would later today receive Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who arrived in Turkey on an official visit. This visit is particularly significant given its timing, as it is expected to address contentious issues and security and political arrangements in the region, in addition to exploring ways to activate diplomatic channels of communication.
The geopolitical context and the Turkish role
This Turkish initiative is a continuation of Ankara's traditional approach to foreign policy, which aims to maintain a balance between its relations as a NATO member and its strategic ties with its eastern neighbors, particularly Iran and Russia. Turkey has long played a pivotal role in complex issues, leveraging its unique geographical and political position as a bridge between East and West.
Historically, Turkey has sought on several occasions to bring the views closer on the Iranian nuclear issue, and believes that economic sanctions and military tensions negatively affect the economies of the region as a whole, including the Turkish economy, which has close trade and energy ties with Tehran.
The importance of regional de-escalation
Talk of de-escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington has become increasingly important given the volatile situation in the Middle East, particularly the war in Gaza and its repercussions on other fronts such as Lebanon and Yemen. Turkish policymakers understand that any direct escalation between the United States and Iran could plunge the region into a full-blown conflict, a scenario Ankara is striving to avoid by employing its diplomatic tools and opening channels for direct and indirect dialogue.
