Latest News from Turkey
Turkey Engages US and Iran to End Middle East War
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated Turkey is in talks with Washington and Tehran to halt the ongoing Middle East conflict, now in its 13th day since US-Israeli strikes on Iran. He emphasized intense diplomatic efforts alongside German counterpart Johann Wadephul to prevent further escalation.
Concerns include potential refugee flows from Iran, though none have occurred yet.
Erdoğan Warns Against Provocations Targeting Turkey
President Erdoğan declared that anyone attacking or speaking against Turkey will face consequences, amid intensifying Israel-US-Iran conflict. He highlighted Turkey's diplomatic contacts with Iran, US, and others, including over 20 personal calls to stop the war.
Erdoğan stressed protecting Turkey from regional fires and strengthening internal defenses.
Turkish Commander Pledges Military Aid to Azerbaijan
Land Forces Commander Metin Tokel visited Nakhchivan, affirming Turkey's readiness to provide military assistance per the 2021 Shusha Declaration amid Iran war tensions. Both nations accuse Iran of attacks on their territories, heightening regional stakes.
The visit included meetings on mutual interests and visits to monuments.
Turkey Warns Against Inciting Civil War in Iran
Turkey issued a stern warning against efforts to provoke civil war and division in Iran as regional conflicts escalate. This comes amid Ankara's broader diplomatic push to contain the war's spread.
The statement underscores Turkey's concerns over instability spilling over borders.
Fidan Discusses Regional War with Belgian Counterpart
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a phone call with Belgium's Maxime Prevot to assess the regional war and Turkey's mediation efforts. The discussion covered latest developments in the Middle East conflict.
It reflects Turkey's active engagement with European allies on the crisis.
Erdoğan Rejects Sectarian Divisions in Muslim World
President Erdoğan denounced sectarian and ethnic splits, stating there is no Shia or Sunni Islam, amid US-involved Middle East tensions. He warned against divisions exploiting the ongoing conflict.
This aligns with Turkey's push for unity to counter regional instability.
Erdoğan, Central Asia Push to Delist Russian Oligarch Usmanov from EU Sanctions
Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Central Asian states are lobbying Slovakia to remove Alisher Usmanov from EU sanctions ahead of March 15 rollover. Erdoğan sent a letter to Slovak PM Fico emphasizing humanitarian considerations and Usmanov's cooperation.
The effort faces resistance from most EU states despite legal rulings favoring delisting.
Trump Praises Erdoğan, Highlights Turkey's Geopolitics
Former US President Trump emphasized three points while praising Erdoğan, focusing on Turkey's strategic position and economic policies. Comments address geopolitical tensions and pressures.
This underscores ongoing US-Turkey dialogue amid regional crises.
Fidan Meets German Counterpart on War Mediation
During a news conference in Ankara, Fidan and German FM Wadephul discussed negotiation chances to end the war quickly. They addressed Israel's attacks on Lebanon and risks to the Lebanese state.
Turkey aims to prevent escalation and refugee crises similar to Syria.
Erdoğan Announces Retiree Bonuses and Pension Payments
President Erdoğan confirmed holiday bonuses for retirees before celebrations, with March pensions starting March 14. This domestic measure comes amid foreign policy focus on regional war.
It highlights balancing internal welfare with external diplomacy.
Turkey Voices Concerns Over Lebanon Displacement
Amid the war, over 800,000 Lebanese are displaced due to Israeli actions, with Wadephul warning of regional impacts. Turkey fears similar refugee pressures as in Syria's civil war.
Diplomatic talks stress ending attacks to stabilize neighbors.