Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Wednesday that Turkey is actively working to extend the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, aiming to reduce regional tensions and ensure ongoing diplomatic discussions despite existing obstacles.
Speaking to parliament, Erdogan highlighted Ankara’s close communication with Washington, Tehran, and Pakistan, which is acting as a mediator. He expressed hope that negotiations will persist even as difficulties remain.
He cautioned that recent Israeli military actions in Lebanon are threatening the fragile peace process, emphasizing that the ceasefire presents a critical opportunity that must not be squandered.
Erdogan acknowledged that while dialogue continues, the talks have faced significant challenges, especially concerning Iran’s nuclear program. Additionally, he noted a resurgence of tensions near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
“We are proposing initiatives to ease tensions, extend the ceasefire, and maintain dialogue,” Erdogan stated, stressing that constructive negotiations cannot happen under coercion.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump indicated that discussions with Iran could soon resume and potentially result in an agreement, following recent talks in Pakistan that concluded without a definitive outcome.
Diplomatic officials anticipate a meeting of foreign ministers from Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt on the sidelines of a diplomatic forum in Antalya later this week. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is also expected to participate in the event.
In a significant development, Erdogan conveyed optimism that despite the complexity and longevity of the issues, progress is achievable if all parties remain committed to the long-term advantages of peace.
