Erdogan Urges Trump to Resume Iran Talks, Offers Turkey’s Support for Peace Efforts

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged U.S. President Donald Trump to prioritize diplomacy with Iran as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high, offering Turkey’s support for efforts to secure a lasting peace.

During a phone call on Tuesday, Erdogan stressed the importance of making full use of diplomatic channels and expressed hope that negotiations between the United States and Iran would continue, according to a statement from the Turkish presidency.

Turkey, a NATO member with the alliance’s second-largest military and a shared border with Iran, has repeatedly called for an end to the conflict. Ankara has maintained communication with the United States, Iran and mediators including Qatar and Pakistan while positioning itself as a potential intermediary.

Erdogan’s appeal comes as prospects for a permanent settlement remain uncertain. A senior Iranian official said Monday that Tehran would move toward a “fully offensive” military posture after negotiations aimed at permanently ending the war stalled. Washington has also ruled out extending a temporary ceasefire agreement.

Efforts to restore oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz have similarly made little progress. The strategic waterway remains a major concern for global energy markets and regional security.

Turkey has criticized U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran while also condemning Iranian strikes against Gulf countries. Ankara has repeatedly called for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen. On Monday, Turkey’s foreign minister discussed reopening the waterway and maintaining the ceasefire with his Iranian counterpart.

Erdogan and Trump also discussed bilateral relations, the Gaza war and a defense pact involving Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Erdogan described the agreement as demonstrating a strong commitment to regional security and stability.

The Turkish leader also raised concerns about Israeli attacks on Palestinians as the second phase of Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan was expected to take effect.

The White House did not immediately comment on the Erdogan-Trump phone call.