Turkish President Erdogan warns against actions that could damage centuries-old ties with Iran

Turkish President Erdogan warns against actions that could damage centuries-old ties with Iran

No step should be taken that would "cast a shadow over our thousand-year neighborly and brotherly ties with Iran or wound our nation," said Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday, referring to the interception of a missile from Iran towards Türkiye earlier in the day, Anadolu Agency reported.

Despite "our sincere warnings, extremely wrong and provocative steps that will strain Türkiye’s friendship continue to be taken," Erdogan said in an address to the nation after Cabinet meeting.

Türkiye has engaged in intense diplomacy since the Iran war broke out on Feb. 28, he added.

"We have held talks with 16 leaders to find a way out of the crisis," said Erdogan.

Ankara stands on the side of justice, international law, peace, and stability in Iran and supports resolving conflicts through dialogue, he also said.

Since the start of the conflict, all Turkish units have been on alert, said Erdogan, adding: "We have mobilized all institutions of our state."

There is no problem or congestion at Türkiye's three customs gates on the Iranian border, he said, noting that Ankara monitors its airspace 24/7 for potential threats with its F-16s, airborne early warning aircraft, and tanker planes.

Türkiye will continue to follow developments in coordination with NATO and other allies and take additional measures to strengthen its security, Erdogan said.

On Türkiye’s goal of being terror-free, he warned that no one should miscalculate or fall into the trap of the Zionist massacre network trying to turn brother against brother.

Turkish Central Bank reserves stand at around $200 billion and the country’s financial system has the ability to absorb any risk with its solid capital structure and strong liquidity, he said.

2026-03-09