Erdogan Presses Trump on Iran Diplomacy While Criticizing Israel’s Gaza Operations

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged President Donald Trump to pursue continued diplomacy with Iran during a phone call that also included sharp criticism of Israel’s military operations in the Gaza Strip.

Turkey’s presidency said Erdogan told Trump that diplomatic options should be used to their fullest as Washington deals with renewed tensions involving Tehran. Erdogan said Turkey would continue supporting efforts aimed at preserving peace and dialogue.

Iran Tensions in Focus

The conversation came amid growing uncertainty over the future of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire. A senior Iranian official said Tehran would shift its military posture to a “full offensive” stance as negotiations over a permanent end to the conflict remained stalled and Washington ruled out extending the temporary 60-day ceasefire.

Turkey, which has NATO’s second-largest military, has sought to position itself as an intermediary between Washington and Tehran. Ankara has also pushed for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the continuation of the ceasefire.

Erdogan Criticizes Israel Over Gaza

The Turkish presidency said Trump and Erdogan held an in-depth discussion about the war in Gaza. Erdogan criticized Israel, arguing that Israeli operations against Palestinians were increasing at a time when the second phase of Trump’s Gaza peace initiative was expected to take effect.

Israel has repeatedly maintained that its military operations are directed against terrorist organizations and their infrastructure, not Gaza’s civilian population. Hamas has used Gaza as a base for attacks against Israel and has embedded military infrastructure throughout the territory.

Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Discuss Defense Cooperation

Trump and Erdogan also discussed a trilateral defense arrangement involving Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Erdogan described the initiative as a “strong expression of resolve” in support of regional security and stability.

The discussions underscore Turkey’s attempt to expand its diplomatic and security role across the Middle East while simultaneously maintaining its longstanding criticism of Israel’s campaign against Hamas in Gaza.

The White House did not immediately provide Reuters with a response regarding the details of the call.