Erdogan Urges Trump to Talk With Iran, Offers Turkish Support for Peace

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has urged U.S. President Donald Trump to pursue diplomatic talks with Iran to ease escalating tensions between the two nations. In a phone call, Erdogan conveyed the importance of prioritizing diplomacy and offered Ankara's support for any peace initiatives, according to a statement from the Turkish presidency.

Turkey, a NATO member with a significant border with Iran, has consistently advocated for an end to the conflict. The country has maintained active communication channels with the United States, Iran, and international mediators, positioning itself as a potential intermediary.

Erdogan's call to Trump came shortly after a senior Iranian official indicated that Iran would adopt a "fully offensive" military stance. This shift was attributed to the stalling of negotiations aimed at a permanent end to the war, with Washington ruling out an extension of a temporary ceasefire agreement. Progress on resuming oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has also reportedly stalled.

The Turkish presidency also stated that Erdogan and Trump discussed bilateral relations, the war in Gaza, and a recently signed defense pact between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan. Erdogan reportedly praised the pact as a symbol of regional stability and security. Additionally, he informed Trump that Israel's actions against Palestinians had intensified, coinciding with the expected implementation of the second phase of Trump's Gaza Peace Plan.

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Erdogan stated that it is of great importance to make the utmost of diplomacy regarding the tensions between Iran and the United States, that we hope the talks will continue, and that Turkey will continue to support peace efforts