ANKARA — Turkiye’s foreign minister warned of potential risks to the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions between the United States and Iran, urging diplomacy to secure one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.
Hakan Fidan expressed concern over emerging proposals by Washington and Tehran to introduce new rules governing passage through the strategic waterway, highlighting the challenges such efforts could pose.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency on Monday, Fidan said reopening the strait should be achieved through diplomatic means following the failure of weekend talks between the United States and Iran to reach an agreement on ending the conflict.
He said progress could still be possible in the coming weeks if negotiations take a constructive turn, noting that Tehran is expected to review and respond to a U.S. proposal.
However, Fidan cautioned that disagreements over uranium enrichment remain a major obstacle.
“If the issue of uranium enrichment becomes an all-or-nothing matter, we may face serious difficulties,” he said, adding that both sides appear committed to securing a ceasefire and recognize its urgency.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key global oil transit route, and any disruption could have significant consequences for energy markets worldwide.
Fidan also warned of broader regional risks, saying tensions could escalate further. He pointed to the situation in Lebanon as part of what he described as expansionist policies by Israel and cautioned that the crisis could widen into a larger regional conflict.
He called for the creation of a regional security framework aimed at building trust among neighboring countries and preventing further instability.