WANA (Mar 02) – “The capabilities you possess are also available to others. So, if you don’t want a stone thrown at your window, don’t throw stones at others’ windows.”

 

These threatening remarks were recently made by Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, in reference to Iran.

 

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Fidan labeled Iran’s anti-Israel strategies, which strengthen and solidify the resistance network in the region, as actions against Turkey’s interests. He went even further, threatening Tehran by implying that Ankara might support separatist movements inside Iran.

 

This is not the first time Ankara has tried to bolster its regional position by criticizing Iran’s policies. However, what makes this statement particularly significant is its timing—especially considering that Turkey, despite its pro-Palestinian rhetoric, remains one of Israel’s largest trade partners. Even amid the Gaza war, Turkey-Israel trade not only continued but also indirectly contributed to Israel’s supply chain.

 

It was anticipated that the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in Syria would lead to a more aggressive Turkish approach, and in recent weeks, anti-Iranian rhetoric from Ankara has intensified significantly.

 

What’s Behind Turkey’s Threats?

Ankara fully understands that a direct confrontation with Iran, especially while dealing with internal and external crises, would be costly. Economic struggles, Kurdish tensions, strained relations with Western allies, and political uncertainty at home make it difficult for Turkey to open a new front against Iran. So, how should these threats be interpreted?

 

One possible explanation is that Turkey is using these threats as a bargaining chip with the West. Ankara has consistently shown its ability to leverage regional tensions to boost its geopolitical influence. Its renewed engagement with certain Arab states and efforts to strengthen ties with Western players fit within this broader strategy.

 

In response, Iran’s Foreign Ministry took a cautious approach. The ministry’s spokesperson, without directly addressing Fidan’s threats, emphasized that Iran welcomes any process aimed at countering terrorism and enhancing regional security. But is this response sufficient?

 

Mehdi Khanalizadeh, an international relations expert, reacted critically to Iran’s diplomatic stance, noting: “48 hours have passed since Turkey’s Foreign Minister threatened Iran’s national security, yet Ankara’s ambassador has not been summoned.”


Why Is Ankara Targeting Iran Now?

It seems that Turkey is exploiting momentary weaknesses in Iran’s regional diplomacy to redefine its position. Moreover, recent developments in Syria and Turkey’s growing alignment with Arab states have emboldened Ankara to adopt a more aggressive posture.

 

A Strategic Shift or Tactical Play?

Fidan was remarkably blunt in his remarks:” If you seek to create unrest in a country by supporting a group, another country can do the same within your own borders to trouble you.”

 

This statement is not just a direct warning to Tehran, but also a signal to other regional players.

 

Still, Turkey is well aware that engaging in a direct conflict with Iran—while grappling with economic crises, Kurdish issues, and tensions with Western allies—would come at a high cost. So, again, what’s the real agenda behind these threats?

 

How Should Iran Respond?

Whether Turkey is shifting its regional strategy or merely seeking greater leverage, the coming weeks will reveal more. However, one thing is clear: Tehran cannot afford to leave these threats unanswered.

 

If Ankara intends to capitalize on regional tensions, Iran’s diplomacy must ensure that this approach does not turn into a strategic success for Turkey.

 

A key weakness in Iran’s current approach is its reactive rather than proactive stance in regional developments. Meanwhile, Ankara—despite its contradictory actions—has successfully positioned itself as an active mediator and influential player.

 

Perhaps it’s time for Iran to move beyond a defensive posture and redefine its regional diplomacy. Turkey has demonstrated its willingness to engage in more complex geopolitical maneuvers—Is Iran prepared to respond at the same level?