Türkiye Rejects Military Action Against Iran at Istanbul Talks

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Istanbul as tensions across the Middle East continue to rise. The two ministers delivered coordinated messages calling for restraint, diplomacy and respect for regional sovereignty.

“Military Intervention Is Not an Option”

Speaking after the meeting, Fidan said Türkiye is closely monitoring developments in Iran and expressed condolences for those killed during recent protests. He stressed that internal issues should be resolved peacefully by the Iranian people without outside interference.

Fidan said Ankara has consistently conveyed its opposition to any military intervention against Iran, warning that such actions would deepen instability across the region.

“If conflicts continue, they create fertile ground for terrorism, mass migration and poverty,” Fidan said, calling on all parties to return to diplomacy.

Warning Over Israeli Actions

Fidan said Türkiye observes efforts by Israel to push the United States toward a military confrontation with Iran, warning that such moves could seriously damage the region’s already fragile stability.

He said Türkiye rejects all forms of regional expansionism, including Israeli expansionism, pointing to Israel’s actions in Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Iran and Qatar as evidence of destabilizing ambitions.

Iran: Ready for Talks, Not Under Threats

Araghchi said Iran remains open to diplomatic engagement but made clear that negotiations cannot begin while threats persist.

“Iran is ready for all diplomatic processes,” he said, adding that talks must be legitimate, rational and respectful of Iran’s legal rights. He accused the United States of lacking good faith, citing past experiences.

Araghchi said Washington has repeatedly sought negotiations through intermediaries but stressed that dialogue must be free of coercion.

Missiles and Defense Off the Table

The Iranian foreign minister said Iran’s missile program and defense capabilities would never be subject to negotiations. He also dismissed military pressure, saying previous attacks had failed to achieve their objectives.

“A military attack is not an option,” Araghchi said.

Criticism of Europe and IRGC Designation

Araghchi criticized the European Union’s stance toward Iran, saying the IRGC played a decisive role in defeating Daesh and preventing terrorism from spreading to Europe. He described the EU’s policies as a serious mistake that would eventually be acknowledged.

Syria and Regional Stability

Both ministers reaffirmed support for Syria’s territorial integrity. Araghchi called for an end to Israeli occupation, while Fidan said Türkiye closely follows developments in Syria and views integration efforts as beneficial for the country.

Fidan said Türkiye is ready to do its part to support peaceful solutions and regional stability, emphasizing that dialogue remains the only viable path forward.