Turkish President Erdogan welcomes Trump’s remarks on ending Israel-Iran conflict

By Esra Tekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday welcomed his US counterpart Donald Trump’s recent remarks on ending the Israel-Iran conflict, stressing the need for immediate action to prevent a catastrophe that could engulf the entire region in flames.

The two leaders discussed the Israel-Iran conflict, bilateral ties and regional issues in a phone call, Türkiye's Communications Directorate said on X.

Erdogan reiterated that diplomacy is the only viable path to resolve the issue of Iran's nuclear program, expressing Ankara's readiness to make every effort to this end, including facilitation.

Israel's attacks on Iran have led to "irreversible economic, civilian damage" for both sides, the Turkish president said, stressing the need to put an end to this risky path.

Trump, in a post on Truth Social on Sunday, said "Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal" and that many calls and meetings were underway to achieve peace.

The conflict began early Friday when Israel struck Iranian military and nuclear sites, and killed many of its top commanders and scientists. Israel has continued the attacks and Iran has launched retaliatory strikes.

Trump and Erdogan also spoke over the phone on Saturday.