Fidan: Iranian protests are real, but interpreting them as the fall of the government is unrealistic

On Friday (January 23, 2026), Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan answered reporters’ questions about current developments in Iran in a live television program and explained Ankara’s view on the matter.

In part of his speech, Fidan stated that the recent protests in Iran are rooted in economic problems and that interpreting them as an attempt to change or overthrow the government is not necessarily a realistic analysis of the situation.

He emphasized that these protests are real and that the protesters’ demands should be considered and considered. This is Türkiye’s advice to the Iranian side.

The Turkish Foreign Minister also said: “There is a possibility of reaching an agreement with the United States on the Iranian nuclear issue.”

He added that Türkiye, as a neighboring and regional country, does not want a new war in the region.

Mr. Fidan pointed out that while efforts are being made to heal the wounds of Syria and Iraq, creating another major crisis in the region will not benefit anyone.

Fidan continued, referring to the friendly relations between Turkey and Iran, saying: “As friends, we shared with them what we know is right and what needs to be done, as they say, a true friend tells you the bitter truth.”

He also warned that there are signs that Israel is seeking to attack Iran.

Fidan’s statements come at a time when relations between Türkiye and Iran have fluctuated in recent years, but the two countries continue to emphasize maintaining dialogue and cooperation on regional issues.