Erdogan, Lebanon's Aoun discuss security and economy amid Gaza war fallout

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan engaged in a comprehensive telephone discussion with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Tuesday, addressing a broad agenda of bilateral and regional concerns. According to a readout from Türkiye's Communications Directorate, the leaders focused on expanding economic cooperation while also tackling critical security challenges stemming from the unresolved Gaza conflict and its regional spillover.

Bolstering Lebanese Stability and Economic Ties

President Erdoğan reaffirmed Türkiye's steadfast commitment to Lebanon's sovereignty and stability during the call. He highlighted the significant potential to deepen trade and investment links between the two nations. Demonstrating Ankara's proactive stance, Erdoğan expressed Türkiye's readiness to actively support international initiatives and mechanisms aimed at strengthening Lebanon's overall security framework.

Stances on Israel and Cyprus

A major point of discussion was the lingering tension along the Lebanon-Israel border. President Erdoğan explicitly conveyed Türkiye's opposition to what was described as "Israel's aggressive posture toward Lebanon." This comes despite a ceasefire agreement in November 2024 that ended over a year of deadly cross-border exchanges linked to the Gaza war. The Turkish leader also raised the Cyprus issue, conveying Türkiye's expectation that Lebanon adopt a foreign policy position that safeguards the rights and interests of Turkish Cypriots on the divided island.

Regional Context and Broader Implications

The high-level dialogue occurs within a complex regional landscape. The ceasefire in southern Lebanon remains fragile, with Israel maintaining a military presence at several border outposts despite a pledged withdrawal. Furthermore, Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye's support for political transformations in Syria that could foster regional stability. The conversation underscores Türkiye's continued diplomatic efforts to position itself as a key stakeholder in Eastern Mediterranean and Levantine affairs, balancing economic partnership with strong political advocacy on issues central to its national interests.