Turkish FM: Agreement with US could help stabilise Iran’s turmoil

Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said it would be “advisable” for Iran to rebuild normal relations with neighbouring countries, reiterating Ankara’s view on the regional implications of the current unrest.

According to Azerbaijani media, Fidan made the comments during an appearance on TRT Haber, where he also discussed the status of nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran and the sanctions imposed on Tehran. He noted that “reaching an agreement that benefits both sides” could contribute to stabilising the broader situation.

Addressing the wave of demonstrations across Iran, Fidan emphasised that the authorities should work toward “achieving a consensus with the demonstrators.”

The protests were sparked by a sharp decline in economic conditions, including a rapid depreciation of the national currency and a significant rise in consumer prices. Official figures show that food prices have increased by more than 70 per cent over the past year, while the cost of medicines has risen by around 50 per cent following the removal of a preferential exchange rate for importers.

Analysts describe the current unrest as the most extensive wave of demonstrations Iran has experienced in the past three years, though still less widespread than the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement of 2022.

The first protests erupted on December 28, when traders at Tehran’s central bazaar took to the streets after the currency collapse. The demonstrations quickly spread nationwide. Mobile phone, electronics and household appliance vendors — who purchase goods in foreign currency but are forced to sell them in local currency — have been among the most active groups, later joined by students and other segments of society.

On January 9, videos circulating on social media showed a building belonging to the state broadcaster IRIB in Isfahan set ablaze. In Tehran, crowds chanted slogans calling for the overthrow of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the return of exiled Prince Reza Pahlavi.

Pahlavi publicly thanked US President Donald Trump for “reaffirming support for holding Iran’s regime accountable,” calling on the international community to assist in restoring communications after authorities cut off internet, landline and potentially satellite connections.

By Tamilla Hasanova