Erdogan says Turkey working to extend Iran ceasefire, continue talks

ANKARA: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday said Turkey is working to extend a ceasefire between the United States and Iran, reduce tensions, and ensure the continuation of talks despite ongoing challenges.

Addressing lawmakers in parliament, Erdogan said Ankara remains in close contact with Washington, Tehran, and mediator Pakistan, expressing hope that negotiations will continue even as hurdles persist.

He warned that recent Israeli attacks in Lebanon were undermining prospects for peace, stressing that the opportunity created by the ceasefire must not be lost.

Erdogan said that while dialogue between the parties continues, negotiations have encountered difficulties, particularly on the nuclear issue. He added that tensions were also rising again around the Strait of Hormuz.

“We are putting forward proposals and taking initiatives to reduce tensions, extend the ceasefire and sustain dialogue,” he said, adding that meaningful negotiations cannot take place under pressure.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said talks with Iran could resume soon and potentially lead to an agreement, following recent negotiations held in Pakistan that ended without a breakthrough.

Diplomatic sources said foreign ministers from Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Egypt are expected to meet on the sidelines of a diplomacy forum in Antalya later this week. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is also scheduled to attend the event.

Erdogan expressed optimism that despite complex and long-standing issues, progress can be achieved if all sides remain focused on the long-term benefits of peace.