Erdogan warns Trump against new Iran strikes as Turkey pushes regional de-escalation deal
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- Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin revealed that regional mediators are advancing a seven-point initiative involving sanctions relief
- Turkish officials noted that negotiations hinge on which side takes the first step
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged US President Donald Trump to refrain from launching another round of military strikes against Iran, cautioning that renewed escalation risks dragging the Middle East into prolonged instability.
Speaking on the sidelines of a conference in Ankara on Monday, Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin disclosed that Erdogan raised Ankara's concerns directly with Trump during a phone call on Saturday.
"We reject any new wave of attacks on Iran and dragging our region into further instability," Erdogan stated, adding that Turkey is closely monitoring negative developments around Tehran and utilizing all diplomatic avenues to prevent escalation.
Kalin warned that any further US military action against Iran would ignite a broader cycle of regional violence, stating that Turkey and regional partners are actively facilitating a seven-point de-escalation framework.
Under the outlined initiative, Iran would receive targeted sanctions relief and regain access to frozen financial assets. In exchange, Tehran would formally commit to not acquiring nuclear weapons, re-engage with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to restart formal nuclear talks, and guarantee maritime passage by unblocking the Strait of Hormuz.
"It's just a matter of sequencing right now who will take the first step," Kalin said. "That's where we are."
Kalin warned that the diplomatic window remains narrow, noting that without an agreement in the coming days, fresh strikes could occur. He called on Iranian authorities to show greater flexibility to overcome remaining hurdles.
Ankara is preparing to advance the initiative further during the upcoming COP31 climate summit in Antalya, where Erdogan is scheduled to host several regional heads of state.
