Erdoğan holds intensive diplomatic talks with US, Gulf, European leaders

2026-03-02 - 08:23

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan engaged in an extensive diplomatic outreach Sunday, speaking with US, Gulf and European leaders as the region grapples with the widening conflict triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran. The Turkish Communications Directorate confirmed the calls, which covered the latest developments following Saturday's military campaign that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and dozens of senior commanders. US and Gulf engagements In his conversation with US President Donald Trump, Erdoğan discussed the evolving situation in Iran and the Gulf region, exchanging assessments on ongoing developments. The Turkish president also spoke with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, extending well-wishes following attacks on Qatar and receiving information on conditions there. Erdoğan expressed condolences to UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over attacks targeting their countries, discussing regional implications during the talks. Saudi dialogue focuses on conflict prevention During his conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Erdoğan warned that without necessary intervention, the conflict could produce serious regional and global security consequences. The Turkish president stressed that both Türkiye and Saudi Arabia have exerted serious efforts to resolve disputes through dialogue, emphasizing that giving diplomacy a chance remains the most rational course. The warning reflects Ankara's concern that the escalating confrontation could spiral beyond control, drawing in more actors and destabilizing the entire Middle East. Kuwait and European outreach Erdoğan spoke with Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, expressing sorrow and conveying well-wishes over attacks on Kuwait. In his call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the Turkish president discussed the attacks on Iran and subsequent conflict, reiterating Ankara's call for all parties to return to diplomacy and negotiations. He underlined the importance of close coordination between Türkiye and the EU during the process and reaffirmed Türkiye's readiness to support peace efforts. The diplomatic blitz comes as the US-Israeli campaign continues into its third day, with Iran retaliating through drone and missile strikes targeting Gulf countries and three US service members confirmed killed.