Iran and Turkey Summon Diplomats Amid Rising Tensions

Diplomatic tensions between Iran and Turkey have escalated, leading to the summoning of each other's diplomats. The friction arose after Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticized Iran's support for militias in Syria and elsewhere. In response, Iran summoned the Turkish ambassador in Tehran, emphasizing the need to avoid remarks that could escalate bilateral tensions. Turkey reciprocated by summoning the Iranian charge d'affaires in Ankara, conveying that foreign policy matters should be communicated directly to Turkish officials, rather than publicly. The Turkish Foreign Ministry also stated that foreign policy should not be used for domestic politics and that Turkiye values its relations with Iran and considers strengthening bilateral ties important. Fidan had described Iran's reliance on militias as a "risky" strategy and urged a change in policy. An Iranian official, Mahmoud Heidari, told the Turkish ambassador that Muslim countries should focus on halting Israel's actions in Palestinian territories and Syria. Tensions between Tehran and Ankara have grown since the weakening of Iran's influence in Syria, while Turkey's influence has increased.