Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday said neighbouring Iran is facing a “new test” to its social peace and stability following Israeli attacks, expressing hope that the crisis will be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

Speaking after a weekly cabinet meeting, President Erdogan addressed the ongoing unrest in Iran for the first time. He said the situation poses a serious challenge to Iran’s internal stability and warned against efforts that could plunge the wider region into chaos.

“Our neighbour Iran, following the Israeli attacks, is now facing a new test that targets its social peace and stability,” Erdogan said in a televised address.

Emphasis on dialogue and diplomacy

Erdogan stressed that diplomacy remains the only viable path forward. He expressed confidence that Iran would overcome the crisis by prioritising dialogue over confrontation.

“We believe that, with a subtle and prudent policy prioritising dialogue and diplomacy, our Iranian brothers and sisters will, God willing, overcome this treacherous period,” he added.

Regional stability key concern

The Turkish president said Ankara would oppose any initiative that risks dragging the region into deeper uncertainty. He noted that Turkey is closely monitoring developments unfolding on the streets of Iran.

“With our foreign policy centred on peace and stability, we will continue to stand against any initiative that risks dragging our region into chaos,” Erdogan said.

Iran already under pressure

Before the latest unrest, Iran was already grappling with a prolonged economic crisis caused by years of international sanctions. The country is also recovering from the June war with Israel, further straining its political and social fabric.

Thousands have reportedly been killed during the recent protests, though Iranian authorities have not released official figures.

Turkish FM echoes stance

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reinforced Ankara’s position last week, saying Turkey opposes any military operation against Iran. His remarks came amid repeated comments by US President Donald Trump about the possibility of military action as a response to Iran’s crackdown on protests.