Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has voiced concern over the escalating conflict in Iran, warning Russian President Vladimir Putin that the war could spiral out of control. Erdoğan emphasised that Turkey is maintaining contacts with all parties involved to prevent further escalation and regional instability.

According to The Jerusalem Post, citing Reuters on Friday, April 3, 2026, Erdoğan told Putin that Turkey does not approve of attacks against Iran, nor does it endorse Iran’s retaliation against neighbouring countries. Ankara’s stance reflects a desire to mediate and limit the conflict’s spread, while urging restraint from all involved parties.

Erdoğan’s message highlights Ankara’s strategic role in regional diplomacy amid mounting tensions. By keeping lines of communication open with all sides, Turkey aims to act as a stabilising force, preventing the war from widening and impacting neighbouring states. Analysts note that Turkey’s approach underscores the delicate balance of power in the Middle East and the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts.

The Turkish president’s warning comes as the Iran conflict enters its fifth week, with U.S.-Israeli strikes having significant impact but intelligence reports suggesting that much of Iran’s missile and drone capability remains intact. Erdoğan’s intervention signals growing international concern over the conflict’s trajectory and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions.

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