R4 Calls for Diplomatic Solution to Iran War as Turkey Warns Against Attacks
Hakan Fidan warns that renewed attacks on Iran could widen the regional conflict as regional and European powers push for diplomacy.
ISTANBUL – (Special Correspondent/Web Desk) – The R4 calls for diplomatic solution to Iran war as Turkey warns that renewed military action could increase tensions across the Middle East.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan made the remarks on Friday after meeting officials from Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Germany, France, Britain and Italy in Istanbul.
The meeting focused on the Iran war, attacks on Saudi Arabia by Iran-backed Houthi militants, and Russia’s war in Ukraine. It brought together members of the Regional Four (R4), the European E3 and Italy.
Fidan said the countries agreed that another attack on Iran could expand the conflict. He stressed that military intervention was not a solution and called for diplomacy and dialogue to end the war.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot also warned that renewed tensions between Iran and the United States could leave all sides facing losses and push oil prices higher.
Concerns Over Possible New Strikes
The meeting followed a New York Times report that the US and Israeli militaries had prepared plans for possible renewed strikes against Iran after next month’s US midterm elections.
According to the report, potential targets could include Iran’s energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, missiles and drones. These were reported plans, not confirmation that new attacks would take place.
US President Donald Trump previously said Washington would not attack Iran before the midterms, adding that talks with Tehran had been productive. On Friday, he said the United States could end the war quickly but questioned whether to seek a rapid conclusion.
Turkey and Europe Push for Negotiations
Turkey has maintained contact with Washington, Tehran and regional mediators to help end the conflict. Ankara has repeatedly called for attacks to stop and warned against a wider regional war.
Fidan said the countries had discussed possible measures to prevent further escalation but did not provide details.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Germany, France and Britain were ready to negotiate with Iran to address concerns over its nuclear programme and prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons. He also called for support for Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
The Istanbul meeting highlighted growing diplomatic efforts to contain the conflict. However, reaching an agreement will depend on whether the countries involved can make progress through negotiations and reduce the risk of further military action.
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