Fidan says 1-2 nuclear issues can be resolved ahead of US-Iran talks

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that he believes key deadlocked issues in the nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran could soon be overcome, as diplomatic talks are set to resume this weekend in Islamabad. “As talks on the Iran war are set to resume tomorrow, I believe that one or two issues — particularly those that had been deadlocked in the nuclear dossier — can be resolved,” Fidan told journalists after a program at Oxford University.

Türkiye’s active mediation role

Fidan said Türkiye is in almost daily contact with all parties involved in the negotiations and welcomed recent steps toward extending the fragile ceasefire. “We welcomed the initial two-week ceasefire, but we also said at the time that it would not be enough to reach a final agreement. That ceasefire has now been extended. We are trying to contribute positively and provide encouragement to all sides,” he added. He noted that progress in nuclear talks could also ease wider regional tensions, including those in the Strait of Hormuz.

Two scenarios for the Strait of Hormuz

Fidan outlined two possible scenarios for the strategic Gulf waterway. The first involves a negotiated return to the previous status quo, ensuring free maritime passage without restrictions. The second scenario — if negotiations fail — would require addressing problematic areas in the strait. “If Iran and the Americans reach an agreement and peace is achieved, a coalition could carry out technical work there, including mine clearance,” he said. However, he cautioned that Ankara would take a different stance if any operation appeared to involve taking sides in a renewed conflict. “Our sensitivities are clear,” he said.