Erdoğan & Barzani Discuss Regional Conflicts, Iraq Support | March 7, 2026
Erdogan and Barzani Discuss Regional Escalation, Seek Diplomatic Solutions
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani held a phone conversation on Saturday, March 7, 2026, expressing shared concern over rising tensions in the Middle East and calling for intensified diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.
According to statements released by both the Kurdistan Region Presidency and the Turkish Communications Directorate, the two leaders reviewed recent regional developments and the potential impact of ongoing conflicts. They agreed that the current situation poses a significant threat to stability and underscored the urgent need for political solutions to protect civilian populations.
“Türkiye stands by Iraq during this critical process,” Erdogan reportedly told Barzani during the call, as stated by the Turkish Communications Directorate. He added that Türkiye is actively working to end regional conflicts and facilitate a return to negotiations. Erdogan also emphasized that Ankara is closely monitoring recent movements by terrorist organizations and affiliated groups, and will continue its efforts against actions that could destabilize the region.
The conversation also highlighted the importance of the “Terror-Free Türkiye” initiative, with both leaders emphasizing its significance. Erdogan stated that Türkiye will continue its efforts against actions that could drive the region into long-term disaster.
Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to promoting calm, supporting peaceful initiatives, and fostering dialogue to resolve disputes while safeguarding security and the public interest. He also emphasized the importance of protecting the interests of the people of the region.
Erdogan praised Barzani’s role in supporting peace efforts within Türkiye, recognizing his initiatives as contributing to harmony and easing tensions between communities. This acknowledgement signals a continued positive relationship between Ankara and Erbil, despite ongoing regional challenges.
The phone call between Erdogan and Barzani comes amid growing concerns about a potential wider conflict in the Middle East. Türkiye has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, and this conversation represents a further step in those efforts. The leaders’ joint call for political solutions underscores the shared belief that a diplomatic approach is essential to preventing further bloodshed and instability.
Both sides agreed on the necessity of pursuing political solutions to prevent the spread of conflicts and protect nations from the devastation of war. The Kurdistan Region Presidency stated that the two presidents agreed that the escalation of tensions poses a real threat to present and future stability.
The Turkish Presidency’s Directorate of Communications released a statement on NSosyal, a Turkish social media platform, detailing the conversation. The Kurdistan Region Presidency also shared details of the call on its official Twitter account.