Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday that the war in Iran must stop before the entire Middle East is “thrown into the fire.” He stressed that diplomacy should be given a chance to prevent wider regional escalation.
Erdogan spoke after recent incidents where NATO air defenses intercepted two Iranian missiles targeting southern Turkey. The missiles aimed at bases used by NATO and United States. In response, NATO has strengthened defenses in the area.
Read more: Erdogan offers to help revive Pak-Afghan truce as clashes continue
“This war must be stopped before it grows,” Erdogan told parliament. He emphasized Ankara’s careful approach to protect Turkey while engaging with all sides to seek an end to the conflict. Turkey had offered mediation before the US-Israeli strikes began 12 days ago.
The Turkish leader criticized actions by the US, Israel, and Iran, calling the US-Israeli air campaign a “clear violation” of international law. However, he avoided directly naming Donald Trump to preserve personal rapport and ease bilateral tensions.
Read more: Turkey’s Erdogan speaks to UK PM Starmer
Opposition figures argue Erdogan’s cautious approach has emboldened the US. Ozgur Ozel, chairman of the Republican People’s Party, said Ankara’s silence is not true neutrality and US actions did not consider Turkish sensitivities. Erdogan continues to push diplomacy while warning of threats to national security.