• Turkey's President Erdogan denounces the joint US-Israel military attack on Iran as a violation of sovereignty, warning of threats to regional stability.
  • The conflict, which began on February 28, 2026, has escalated into direct armed engagement, with Iran launching retaliatory strikes and Turkey preparing for potential refugee influxes.
  • Economic risks loom as the Strait of Hormuz faces disruption threats, while Turkey navigates diplomatic efforts amid strained relations with the US and Israel.

Turkey has officially condemned the US-Israel military strikes on Iran, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan labeling the attacks early on February 28, 2026, as "unacceptable" and a breach of Iranian sovereignty. According to people familiar with the matter, Turkey's communications chief Burhanettin Duran echoed this stance, emphasizing the dangers to regional stability and civilian safety, while urging dialogue to de-escalate the situation. The Turkish Foreign Minister has engaged directly with his Iranian counterpart amid the ongoing strikes, underscoring Ankara's active diplomatic role.

The conflict marks the start of the 2026 Iran-US war, following weeks of US military buildup and failed nuclear talks in Geneva on February 26, where Iran rejected US demands on its facilities and missiles. In response to the strikes, Iran launched counterstrikes, with experts predicting no quick end to the hostilities, as regime survival is at stake for Tehran. Turkey is now in talks with regional governments, preparing for a potential Iranian refugee influx by considering border camps and force deployments, according to sources close to the discussions. This move shifts NATO air surveillance focus from Russia to Iran, reflecting heightened security concerns.

Economically, the conflict risks disrupting global energy markets, particularly through threats to the Strait of Hormuz, where IRGC drills occurred recently. Turkey fears economic strain from refugees and instability, with no direct company involvement reported yet. Politically, Turkey prioritizes de-escalation and international law, while resisting Kurdish governance plans in northern Iran due to ties to the PKK, a factor that complicates regional dynamics. The situation builds on historical tensions, including Israel's Operation Rising Lion in June 2025 and prior attacks on Iraqi Kurdistan.

In related developments, Iranian-backed Kataib Hezbollah has threatened Iraqi Kurdistan and the US over the strikes, while Kurdish opposition groups plan post-regime governance. US sanctions on Iran-linked procurement networks, including Turkey-based firms, add another layer of complexity. Turkey has urged public vigilance against misinformation and is monitoring developments to protect its citizens, with societal impacts including existential costs for Iranian civilians and potential refugee surges affecting border security. Efforts to reach Turkish officials for further comment were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.