Turkey and Iran are engaged in a diplomatic spat following critical comments made by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan regarding Iran’s foreign policy. This led to summoning of diplomats from both sides, revealing underlying tensions. Despite their differences, both nations uphold significant economic ties, highlighting the need for continued dialogue to foster cooperation.
A diplomatic rift between Turkey and Iran intensified as Turkey summoned a senior Iranian diplomat following controversial remarks from Turkish officials. Ankara’s Foreign Ministry called in Iran’s charge d’affaires after their ambassador in Tehran was summoned due to Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s interview with Al Jazeera Arabic, where he criticized Iran’s foreign policy involving militias in regional conflicts. Fidan’s statement suggested that Iran’s aggressive policies could lead to negative consequences for itself.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei condemned comments from Turkey as “very unconstructive” during a weekly press conference, indicative of rising tensions. Simultaneously, Turkey’s ambassador in Tehran was called for a discussion with Iranian officials regarding recent criticisms from Tehran. Iran’s foreign ministry emphasized the need to avoid provocative statements that might strain bilateral relations.
Iranian politicians also reacted strongly to Fidan’s remarks, signaling a readiness to respond assertively. Ebrahim Rezaei, a spokesman for Iranian lawmakers, suggested Iran would counter any threats rather than passively waiting for provocations. In Ankara, Turkish officials expressed concerns about public criticisms from Iranian leaders, maintaining that foreign policy should not be politicized domestically.
Despite their differences, Iran and Turkey maintain significant economic ties, with a trade volume of $5.49 billion in 2023, primarily consisting of Turkish exports to Iran. Iranians are notably active in Turkey’s real estate market, being the second-largest group of foreign buyers after Russians in early 2025. Both nations recognize the importance of fostering strong relations despite their political disagreements.
Iran’s officials have also voiced interest in nurturing future cooperation, acknowledging Turkey’s understanding of mutual benefits in bilateral relations. Previous tensions have surfaced, such as allegations regarding the targeting of Turkish soldiers by Iranian-made drones in Syria. The complex relationship between the two middle-tier powers continues to oscillate between conflict and collaboration, emphasizing the necessity for diplomatic engagement.
The diplomatic dispute between Turkey and Iran revolves around escalating rhetoric following critical remarks by Turkey regarding Iran’s foreign policy. Both sides, while expressing strong criticisms, recognize the importance of their economic partnership and the need to mitigate tensions. The historical context of their relationship, marked by varying interests, necessitates ongoing dialogue to prevent conflict and enhance cooperation in areas of mutual benefit.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
