Iran–U.S. Talks Remain Unsettled as President Erdoğan Restates Mediation Offer

As uncertainty continues over the venue and format of possible talks between Iran and the United States, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has reiterated Ankara’s readiness to play a mediating role, framing Türkiye as a facilitator focused on de-escalation and dialogue.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Erdoğan said Türkiye is prepared to help reduce tensions between Washington and Tehran and support efforts toward negotiation. “Türkiye is ready to take on a mediating role between Iran and the United States to de-escalate tensions and help resolve disputes,” he said, adding that related diplomatic contacts are ongoing.

Erdoğan also restated Ankara’s opposition to any military action against Iran. “We have stated on every platform that we oppose any military intervention against Iran,” he said, describing Türkiye’s approach as one rooted in diplomacy rather than confrontation. He linked this position to Türkiye’s stated objective of contributing to regional and global stability through dialogue and balance.

These remarks come as diplomatic planning around potential Iran–U.S. talks remains unresolved. As of 4 February 2026, no official confirmation has been issued by the United States, Iran, or Türkiye regarding the date, venue, or format of any meeting. None of the parties has formally endorsed a specific location.

Earlier discussions among regional diplomats had pointed to a multinational meeting in Istanbul on 6 February, with Türkiye expected to play a facilitating role alongside several regional actors. That scenario, however, has not been formally confirmed and is now under reconsideration.

According to Reuters, Iranian officials have requested changes to both the venue and format, signalling a preference for direct, bilateral talks with the United States and proposing Muscat, Oman, as the host location. Sources familiar with the matter say Tehran wants discussions to remain narrowly focused on the nuclear file, excluding broader issues such as missile capabilities or regional proxy activity.

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson has said consultations on the venue and format are continuing and that details will be announced once an agreement is reached. The spokesperson noted that discussions are expected “in the coming days,” without confirming Istanbul, Muscat, or a specific date.

Bosphorus News, citing Iranian sources familiar with internal deliberations, can confirm that direct Iran–U.S. engagement is actively being discussed in Tehran. According to these sources, Iranian decision-makers currently view a one-on-one format with Washington as more workable at this stage, allowing tighter control over scope and clearer definition of expectations before any broader regional involvement.

While Istanbul has been discussed as a possible venue, recent diplomatic signals point to Muscat and a bilateral Iran–U.S. framework as the option now carrying greater weight, pending formal confirmation by the parties involved. Erdoğan’s remarks place Türkiye’s mediation offer clearly on record as discussions over format and location continue.