ISTANBUL, October 24, 2026 — Turkey has warned that renewed military attacks on Iran could intensify tensions across the Middle East and widen the conflict. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said diplomacy and dialogue remain the only viable route to ending the war.

Fidan made the remarks after talks in Istanbul involving foreign ministers from Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Germany, France, Britain and Italy. The meeting brought regional and European governments together to discuss several connected security crises.

According to Reuters, discussions included the Iran conflict, Houthi attacks affecting Saudi Arabia, and Russia’s war against Ukraine. Participants also considered the risks to maritime routes and the broader consequences of further escalation.

Turkey has maintained contacts with Washington, Tehran and regional mediators as it seeks to prevent the conflict from spreading. Ankara has repeatedly presented diplomacy as a means of reducing the risk to civilians, trade and energy supplies.

European officials at the meeting also warned that a renewed confrontation could carry wider economic consequences, including higher oil prices. Several governments said negotiations should continue to address security concerns and prevent further military escalation.

The diplomatic effort faces significant challenges as military planning and regional threats continue. The Istanbul discussions nevertheless underline attempts to keep communication channels open between countries with different interests and alliances.

Source: Reuters, October 23, 2026. Featured image is illustrative and is not a photograph of the meeting.