Why it matters:
The meeting occurs when the U.S.-generated tensions in the region are going higher, particularly regarding the U.S. movements in the Persian Gulf. Turkey is attempting to mediate and reduce these tensions.
The big picture:
The United States has sent military equipment to the region, while Iran has announced its readiness for both dialogue and defense.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has traveled to Turkey for consultations on regional peace. He also met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan before meeting Erdogan.
What Araghchi's saying:
- During the talks, Araghchi highlighted the importance of unity among Islamic countries to confront genocide, war, and expansionism by the Israeli regime.
- The Iranian foreign minister also stressed the need for regional cooperation to address threats and destabilizing influences.
- Iran's top diplomat pointed to recent U.S.-Israeli-backed unrest in Iran, which was fueled by violent elements and terrorists targeting peaceful protests. He higlighted the sacrifice of law enforcement and ordinary citizens to prevent the riots and called for regional awareness against biased Western and Israeli media narratives regarding Iran’s internal affairs.
- He praised Turkey’s responsible approach to Iran’s nuclear issue and reaffirmed Iran’s openness to dialogue based on mutual respect and acceptance of Iran’s legitimate concerns.
What Erdogan is saying:
- President Erdogan expressed confidence that Iran’s government and people, united in their resolve, will overcome current challenges.
- The Turkish President underscored that the escalation of insecurity in the region is unsustainable and reaffirmed Turkey’s readiness to facilitate diplomacy on Iran’s nuclear program, emphasizing that negotiation is the only solution.
Go deeper:
Turkey, Iran Urge De‑escalation, Reject Foreign Intervention
Hossein Amiri - seyed mohammad kazemi
