Iran says it supports regional diplomacy, hails Türkiye's stance on Gaza

By Merve Berker

Iran on Friday reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and diplomacy, while praising Türkiye’s position amid ongoing security challenges and Israeli attacks on Gaza.

Speaking at a joint news conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Istanbul, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran attaches great importance to its partnership with Ankara, particularly in light of recent regional developments.

“Türkiye and Iran have always stood by one another in both difficult and easy times,” Araghchi said.

He added that bilateral relations are grounded in “fraternity and friendship.”

Araghchi thanked Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Turkish government, and Fidan for their messages of solidarity following what he described as recent “terrorist attacks” in Iran, saying the incidents were “clearly directed by Israeli-linked elements.”

Addressing the war in Gaza, he said Iran appreciated Türkiye’s efforts to provide humanitarian assistance and promote peace.

“We thank President Erdogan and Hakan Fidan for their active role and support for Palestine,” he said.

Turning to broader regional issues, Araghchi warned against foreign intervention.

“The illegitimate interference of outside actors, particularly the conspiracies of the Israeli regime, aim to destabilize the region,” he said, stressing that “Islamic countries must act in unity.”

He underlined that regional security is indivisible, saying: “We oppose any action that could destabilize peace and security.”

Commenting on Iran’s nuclear program, Araghchi reiterated that it remains peaceful.

“We have never sought nuclear weapons,” he said, adding that Iran remains open to fair diplomatic processes.

On Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon, Araghchi said Iran supports sovereignty and inclusive governance, and called for an end to occupation in Syria.

Regarding Lebanon, he emphasized the importance of national dialogue among all parties.

Araghchi added that the two sides also discussed ways to boost economic cooperation and remove existing obstacles to trade.