Erdoğan tells Iran president Türkiye opposes foreign intervention

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye's firm opposition to external meddling in Iran during a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday. According to a readout from Türkiye's Communications Directorate, the two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and key regional issues, with Erdoğan emphasizing a consistent principle of Turkish foreign policy.

A Principle of Non-Intervention

President Erdoğan informed President Pezeshkian that he is closely monitoring developments within Iran. He stressed that Ankara "never took a positive stance toward scenarios involving foreign intervention against Tehran," affirming Türkiye's long-held position against external interference in the sovereign affairs of neighboring states. Erdoğan added that resolving regional problems and de-escalating tensions aligns directly with Türkiye's own national interests.

Context of Recent Unrest in Iran

The diplomatic assurance comes against a backdrop of domestic unrest in Iran late last year, triggered by a worsening economic situation characterized by a sharply declining national currency and high inflation. Iranian authorities accused the United States and Israel of supporting what they described as "rioters" and "terrorists" who allegedly targeted public and private property. Erdoğan's message can be seen as a gesture of regional solidarity, reinforcing the importance of stability along Türkiye's eastern border.

Türkiye's Balancing Regional Diplomacy

The call underscores Türkiye's nuanced diplomatic approach in the Middle East, where it maintains complex relationships with various powers. While Türkiye is a NATO member with ties to the West, it also prioritizes dialogue and stable relations with neighboring Iran, a key player in regional security. By clearly opposing foreign intervention, Ankara reinforces its commitment to regional sovereignty and positions itself as a consistent advocate for resolving crises through diplomacy rather than external pressure or coercion.