World
Turkiye urges US to start nuclear talks with Iran
NATO member Turkiye shared a 530-kilometre border with Iran. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged Washington to begin nuclear negotiations in an interview broadcast on Wednesday, alongside the arrival of US warships in the region.
“Attack on Iran is wrong. Starting another war over its response to protests is also incorrect,” Fidan stated in his English-language interview for Qatar-based Al-Jazeera television. “Iran is ready to restart discussions on the nuclear issue.”
“My advice for our American friends has always been clear: resolve each file with Iran individually. Start with the nuclear issue, then move on to others.”
US Central Command confirmed a US naval strike force led by an aircraft carrier was in Middle Eastern waters but declined to specify its precise location.
Washington had not ruled out new military intervention against Tehran over its crackdown and nationwide internet blackout since early this month.
NATO member Turkiye has frequently opposed military operations targeting the Islamic Republic. Last week, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan termed Iran’s unrest as a “new test” for Tehran, committing Turkey would “stand against any initiative” that could destabilize the region.
Fidan also advised addressing problems with Iran individually, stating: “Do not treat them as one package. It will be difficult for our Iranian friends to digest this, especially if it seems humiliating.”
On Friday, Fidan told Turkish channel NTV he had visited Tehran late last year and urged them to “take steps.” He said a deal on the nuclear issue with the US was “possible.”
“Friends tell the hard truths. I had to share what needed to be shared,” he added.
Fidan also stressed the need for Iran to build trust in regional countries. During his December visit, Fidan was frank about his concerns with Iranian friends and advised them to pay attention to how they are perceived by regional nations.”