Turkey Urges US to Adopt 'One-by-One' Approach in Iran Talks, Citing Tehran's Readiness for Nuclear Negotiations

Ankara Advocates for Gradual Diplomacy Amidst US-Iran Tensions

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has publicly urged the United States to pursue a 'one-by-one' strategy in resolving its long-standing disputes with Iran, emphasizing that Tehran is open to resuming negotiations on its nuclear program. Fidan's remarks, made during an interview with Al Jazeera, segments of which aired on January 28, 2026, come amidst heightened tensions and fears of military escalation in the Middle East.

The Turkish top diplomat cautioned against a military strike on Iran, stating, 'It's wrong to start the war again.' He advised US policymakers to 'close the files one by one with Iran. Start with nuclear, close it, then the others.' Fidan argued that presenting all demands as a single package would be 'very difficult' for Iranian leaders to process and could be perceived as 'humiliating,' thereby hindering diplomatic progress.

Iran's Stance and Regional Context

Fidan's comments highlighted Iran's readiness to engage in nuclear talks. 'Iran is ready to negotiate a nuclear file again,' he stated, reflecting a potential opening for dialogue. This sentiment was echoed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who, in a post on X, indicated Iran's welcome for a new deal on its nuclear program while also asserting that the country would respond forcefully to any US military operation.

The call for diplomacy from Ankara arrives as the US has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf, and US President Donald Trump has continued to issue threats of further action against Iran. This follows a '12-day conflict' in June 2025, during which the US reportedly attacked three Iranian nuclear sites. Turkey, a NATO member sharing a 530-kilometer border with Iran, has historically opposed military operations targeting the Islamic Republic and often plays a mediating role in regional affairs.

Bilateral Discussions and Future Outlook

Further underscoring Turkey's diplomatic efforts, Foreign Minister Fidan held a phone call with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, on January 28, 2026. The discussion focused on regional developments and efforts to de-escalate tensions. Fidan also stressed the importance of Iran building trust with its neighbors, suggesting that Iran could occupy a 'perfect place' in the regional order if it actively worked to create confidence.

The Turkish approach suggests that addressing complex issues individually, rather than as a bundled set of demands, could provide a more viable path toward de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution between the United States and Iran.