Erdoğan offers Türkiye as mediator between US and Iran, rejects military action

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced on Tuesday that Türkiye is prepared to mediate between the United States and Iran to help reduce bilateral tensions and prevent a new regional conflict. In an interview with Saudi newspaper Asharq Al‑Awsat during his visit to Riyadh, Erdoğan stressed that Ankara opposes any military intervention against Iran and called for diplomatic solutions. “Türkiye is ready to assume a facilitating role between Iran and the United States in order to de‑escalate tensions and help resolve issues through diplomatic means,” he said.

Call for Regional Security Mechanisms

Erdoğan emphasized the need to establish regional security mechanisms to pre‑empt crises, arguing that the region requires “cooperation shaped by common wisdom and shared responsibility” rather than new divisions. He noted that Türkiye is holding consultations with key regional actors, including Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, and does not approach issues through “the lens of bloc alignment.”

Gaza, Syria, and Sudan

On Gaza, Erdoğan reiterated that discussions about peacekeeping forces should focus on protecting civilians, ensuring aid delivery, and contributing to a just and permanent peace. He said Türkiye is ready to consider a military contribution once conditions are clear and practical. Regarding Syria, he affirmed that the country’s future must be shaped by the Syrian people and stressed the importance of unity, territorial integrity, and the rejection of terrorist safe havens.

Addressing the crisis in Sudan, Erdoğan highlighted Türkiye’s humanitarian assistance—including 12,600 tons of aid and 30,000 tents delivered since 2024—and support for diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. He also rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as “illegitimate, null and void,” warning that it threatens stability in the Horn of Africa.

Strengthening Türkiye‑Saudi Strategic Partnership

Erdoğan described relations with Saudi Arabia as a stabilizing partnership with “strategic significance for the peace, stability, and prosperity of our region.” He highlighted opportunities in economy, trade, investment, energy, tourism, and defense cooperation, including joint production and technology transfer, which he said would “further consolidate the foundations of our strategic partnership.”