Latest News from Turkey
Turkey's Parliament Holds Closed-Door Session on Middle East Crisis
Türkiye's Parliament met behind closed doors on Tuesday to discuss escalating tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran and their implications for Turkish security and diplomacy. Parliament Vice Speaker Kurtulmuş warned that the international system has entered a serious phase of disintegration, with law being replaced by power and international mechanisms becoming ineffective.
Foreign Minister Fidan and Defense Minister Güler briefed lawmakers on developments in the Middle East conflict with enhanced security measures including signal-blocking jammers.
German and Turkish Foreign Ministers Meet on Ukraine, Iran, and Gaza
German FM Johann Wadephul met with Turkish FM Hakan Fidan on March 12, 2026, to discuss critical regional issues including the Ukraine conflict, Iran developments, Gaza, Syria, energy security, and migration. Hakan Fidan emphasized Turkey's position on reducing regional tensions and the importance of diplomatic solutions to ongoing conflicts.
The meeting underscored the importance of diplomatic dialogue between Germany and Turkey on pressing security challenges affecting both Europe and the Middle East.
President Erdoğan Calls for Diplomacy to Stop Iran War
Turkish President Erdoğan warned that the ongoing Iran war must be stopped before it escalates further and engulfs the entire region in flames, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions. Addressing his party's parliamentary group, Erdoğan stated that Turkey has conducted more than 20 phone calls with Iran, the United States, and regional countries involved in the conflict.
Erdoğan stressed that peace remains possible if diplomatic efforts are given a chance.
Turkey's Border with Iran Remains Calm Despite Regional Conflict
Turkey's border with Iran remained calm on Friday with no notable movement or mass build-up of people despite the ongoing U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict. Foreign governments have urged citizens to leave Middle East countries as airspaces have closed and major airlines have canceled flights.
Some individuals, like Iranian woman Leila Rabetnezhadfard, have postponed plans to return to Iran due to the escalating situation.
Turkey to Ban Single-Use Plastics Under Zero Waste Initiative
Türkiye will ban single-use plastics including cutlery, plates, cups, and straws as part of its Zero Waste initiative. The move aims to cut 1.5 million tons of CO₂ annually and save 1.5 billion liras in waste costs.
Turkey Launches 'Where's My Medicine?' in e-Nabız System
Türkiye launched 'İlacım Nerede?' (Where's My Medicine?) within the e-Nabız system to help citizens check pharmacy stock for e-prescriptions. Users can filter pharmacies by location and hours, and receive navigation directions through the integrated app.
Turkey Bans Hidden Fees on Online Food Delivery Platforms
Türkiye implemented regulations banning hidden fees on online food delivery platforms, requiring full commission transparency for restaurants and itemized pricing for customers. The new rules take effect by April 1, 2026, to protect consumers and ensure fair pricing practices.
Saudi Arabia's Defense Chief Discusses Regional Situation with Turkish and Romanian Counterparts
Saudi Arabia's defense chief held discussions with Turkish and Romanian defense counterparts regarding the regional security situation on March 12, 2026. The meeting reflects ongoing diplomatic engagement between regional and international powers addressing security challenges.
Turkey Says Middle East War Must Not Obstruct Ukraine Peace Efforts
Turkish President Erdoğan told world leaders that the war in the Middle East must not get in the way of negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine. Turkey is attempting to balance its regional security concerns with its broader diplomatic role in international peace negotiations.
Former Israeli PM Bennett Warns Israel May Attack Turkey If It Supports Iran
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett stated that if Turkey supports Iran, Israel may attack it, according to Bloomberg reports. The statement reflects heightened tensions and warnings regarding Turkey's potential alignment in the regional conflict.