Erdoğan holds crisis calls with UAE, Qatar leaders after Iran retaliatory strikes

2026-02-28 - 23:02

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held separate phone calls with senior Gulf leaders Sunday following recent attacks in the region, Türkiye's Communications Directorate announced. In his call with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Erdoğan expressed sorrow about attacks directed at the UAE by Iran—which were in retaliation for US and Israeli strikes against Iran earlier Saturday. The two leaders discussed the latest regional situation. Qatar Talks Erdoğan also spoke with Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, extending well wishes following the attacks and receiving detailed information from Al Thani on the situation in Qatar. The president expressed condolences and was briefed on developments. Diplomatic Context The calls follow Saturday's US-Israeli joint military operation against Iran, which Tehran responded to with missiles and drones targeting Israel and US bases in the region. Türkiye has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan holding nine-nation consultations Saturday. Erdoğan's outreach to Gulf allies underscores Ankara's role in seeking to prevent broader regional conflict.