U.S. Urges Allies to Rein in Iran Amid Rising Tensions in Middle East

The U.S. is urging Turkey and other allies to persuade Iran to de-escalate Middle East tensions, according to U.S. Ambassador Jeff Flake. Following attacks on Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, the U.S. seeks cooperation from allies, desiring to curtail potential threats and conflicts in the region.

The United States is calling on Turkey and other allies with connections to Iran to influence it to reduce tensions in the Middle East, according to U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, Jeff Flake.

Flake made the remarks as the region braces for possible retaliatory attacks by Iran and its allies after the assassination of senior Hamas and Hezbollah members. Hamas's political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed in Tehran on July 31, prompting threats of revenge against Israel. Though Iran blamed Israel, the latter has not claimed responsibility.

"We ask all our allies with relations with Iran to urge de-escalation, including Turkey," Flake told journalists in Istanbul, noting that the U.S. finds its Turkish counterparts more optimistic about avoiding an escalation.

U.S.-Turkey relations have faced strain over the U.S.'s alliance with Syrian Kurds and Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 defenses. Yet, Flake believes relations are improving, citing Turkey's logistical support in recent U.S.-Russia prisoner exchanges.

Despite Turkey's helpful role, Erdogan's aggressive rhetoric against Israel over the Gaza situation has complicated Turkey’s potential as a mediator. Flake also raised concerns about military-linked exports to Russia from Turkey and emphasized the necessity for better cooperation to hinder Russia's war capabilities.

"We continue to see significant items entering Russia from Turkey," Flake said. "We seek improved cooperation, and some progress is evident as Russia's complaints increase."