Erdoğan warns against actions damaging Türkiye's centuries-old ties with Iran

2026-03-09 - 20:42

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan issued a carefully calibrated warning Monday regarding tensions with neighboring Iran, stating that no step should be taken that would "cast a shadow over our thousand-year neighborly and brotherly ties with Iran or wound our nation." The remarks, delivered in a national address following a Cabinet meeting, came hours after Türkiye summoned the Iranian ambassador to protest a ballistic missile that entered Turkish airspace before being intercepted. Ankara pursues intensive diplomacy amid provocations Erdoğan revealed the extent of Türkiye's diplomatic engagement since the US-Israeli war on Iran erupted Feb. 28, stating "We have held talks with 16 leaders to find a way out of the crisis." Despite what he described as "our sincere warnings," the president noted that "extremely wrong and provocative steps that will strain Türkiye's friendship continue to be taken." The address struck a balance between defending national sovereignty and preserving long-standing ties with Tehran. National security posture at maximum readiness The president outlined comprehensive security measures implemented since the conflict began, confirming that all Turkish units remain on alert with "all institutions of our state" mobilized. Erdoğan emphasized that experienced crisis management teams are monitoring developments 24/7, leaving "no possibility unchecked" while prioritizing the safety of Türkiye's 86 million citizens. Airspace surveillance continues uninterrupted with F-16s, airborne early warning aircraft, and tanker planes maintaining constant vigilance. Transportation and trade adjustments detailed Erdoğan provided detailed information on measures affecting civil aviation and maritime operations, noting that flights to Iran were reduced and limited to daytime before the conflict escalated. Since Feb. 28, Turkish airspace over Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria has been closed, with alternative routes established via Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina, and Muscat to prevent disruptions for Turkish citizens. Regarding maritime security, the president confirmed that while no Turkish-flagged ships operate in the conflict zone, 15 Turkish-owned vessels and 174 Turkish seafarers are being closely monitored, with alternative routes through Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan recommended to mitigate risks. Terrorism concerns and economic stability Erdoğan warned against terrorist activities in the region, stressing that any scenario threatening Türkiye's stability or regional peace "will be confronted strongly." He cautioned against miscalculations that could lead parties to "fall into the trap of the Zionist massacre network trying to turn brother against brother." On the economic front, the president offered reassurance regarding Türkiye's financial resilience, noting Central Bank reserves stand at approximately $200 billion and the banking system possesses "the ability to absorb any risk with its solid capital structure and strong liquidity."