Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has warned that continuing disruption around the Strait of Hormuz is placing pressure on the regional and global economy, while separately accusing Israel of undermining stability in Syria. His remarks come amid wider Middle East tensions involving Iran, Israel and other regional actors, with Ankara pressing for diplomacy, safe navigation and greater regional cooperation.
Fidan said the closure of the Strait of Hormuz had created significant pressure on global economic conditions, energy security and political stability. In May, he said, “the closure of the Strait of Hormuz places significant pressure on the global economy, energy security, and economic and political stability in the region.” He also said Türkiye supported efforts to reopen the waterway and ensure safe navigation.
The Strait of Hormuz is a major maritime route connecting the Persian Gulf with international shipping lanes. Disruptions there can affect energy supplies, transportation costs and trade well beyond the Middle East. Fidan has argued that the impact of such crises increasingly extends beyond regional borders, noting that a disruption in Hormuz can affect major Asian economies as well as other trading partners.
On Syria, Fidan has repeatedly criticised Israeli military activity, saying it threatens efforts to consolidate stability in the country. In April 2025, he said Israel’s “long-standing operations within Syria actually serve instability rather than stability.”
Türkiye has continued to frame Syria’s stability as a regional security priority. In June, Fidan described Israeli attacks on Syria and Lebanon as part of what he called an ongoing effort to weaken those countries and destabilise the region. Ankara has also stressed the importance of Syria’s territorial integrity, security and economic recovery.
Fidan’s comments represent Türkiye’s assessment of regional developments and allegations directed at Israel; they do not independently establish Israeli intent. Israel has previously maintained that its military operations in Syria are linked to security concerns.
The economic dimension of the Hormuz crisis remains particularly significant for Türkiye, which has sought alternative trade routes and continued diplomatic engagement. Turkish officials have also backed efforts aimed at restoring maritime traffic and reducing the economic effects of regional instability.
The next focus will be whether diplomatic efforts can reduce tensions around Hormuz, restore more predictable navigation and prevent further escalation in Syria and the wider Middle East. Türkiye is expected to continue advocating regional dialogue and diplomatic mechanisms rather than further military escalation.
