BERLIN (dpa-AFX) – Germany and Turkey are committed to a diplomatic resolution of the Iran conflict, despite former US President Donald Trump’s recent threats to resume attacks on Iran. This stance was reiterated by German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) during a meeting with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, in Berlin.
Diplomacy Over Military Action
Minister Wadephul emphasized that a military solution would not yield any positive results. He stated, “If there is a willingness from Iran to renounce its nuclear enrichment program, we have a basis for negotiations.” This sentiment underscores a continued belief in the power of dialogue to de-escalate tensions.
Hakan Fidan echoed this view, asserting that it is “in the interest of the whole world to resolve major crises through diplomatic means as quickly as possible.” He warned that the continuation of the conflict would have significant political and economic repercussions globally. Wadephul further added, regarding Washington and Tehran, that he does not see “negotiations as stalled, but rather as ongoing.” He stressed that Iran’s response to the latest US proposal must be carefully reviewed in Washington.
Trump’s Warnings and Regional Tensions
In contrast to the diplomatic overtures from Berlin and Ankara, former US President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that “the clock is ticking for Iran, and they better move FAST, or there will be nothing left of them.” Meanwhile, Israel is reportedly preparing for a potential resumption of attacks in Iran. An Iranian military spokesperson, according to the Tasnim news agency, warned that any new “folly” by the US would result in “even more devastating and severe blows.”
Turkey’s Call for Stronger EU Ties
When questioned about Turkey’s willingness to continue accepting highly enriched uranium from Iran in the event of an agreement, Fidan stated that following the attacks on nuclear facilities in June 2025, it is practically impossible for anyone to access this uranium. He stressed that there is currently no acute threat, and to maintain this, parties involved in the nuclear issue must reach a negotiated solution.
The Turkish Foreign Minister also urged the EU to strengthen its relationship with Turkey in light of the ongoing conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. He highlighted areas such as combating irregular migration, regional security, securing energy corridors, and counter-terrorism efforts. Fidan argued that a European architecture that does not include Turkey in its rightful place would be incomplete and would weaken the EU’s crisis management strategy.
Revitalization of Strategic Dialogue
Fidan’s visit took place within a significant bilateral framework. Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU), during his inaugural visit to Turkey in October, announced that he and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had decided to resume the “strategic dialogue of foreign ministers.” This format, initiated in 2013, had only been held twice since its inception, indicating a renewed commitment to high-level discussions between the two nations.
The joint efforts by Germany and Turkey highlight a concerted push for de-escalation and peaceful resolution in a volatile region, emphasizing the long-term consequences of military conflict and the enduring value of diplomatic engagement.
Source: dpa-AFX
