Turkey monitors Yemen, Somalia as Erdogan, Saudi crown prince discuss regional crises and ties
ANKARA — Turkey is “closely” following developments in Yemen and Somalia, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in a phone call Sunday with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, stressing the importance of stability and protecting both countries’ territorial integrity, according to Turkey’s Communications Directorate.
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The two leaders discussed bilateral relations along with regional and global issues, the directorate said. Erdogan conveyed Turkey’s readiness to contribute to efforts to bring together Yemen’s rival parties and said Ankara aims to deepen cooperation with Saudi Arabia by taking additional steps in the days ahead.
Erdogan also warned that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is deteriorating as winter sets in, adding that Turkey continues to work for a lasting cease-fire and reconstruction in the war-battered enclave, the statement said.
- Turkey says it is tracking developments in Yemen and Somalia and emphasizes territorial integrity and stability.
- Erdogan told Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Ankara is prepared to support efforts to convene Yemen’s opposing sides.
- The leaders discussed strengthening Turkey–Saudi relations and broader regional dynamics.
- Erdogan highlighted worsening humanitarian needs in Gaza and Turkey’s push for a durable cease-fire and rebuilding.
The overture on Yemen comes as diplomatic channels continue to search for a path out of a war that has splintered the country since 2014. While the statement did not specify mechanisms or timelines, Ankara’s offer to help convene stakeholders aligns with periodic international efforts to reduce tensions and formalize a political process after years of intermittent talks and fragile truces.
On Somalia, Erdogan’s emphasis on territorial integrity and stability reflects long-running international concerns over security threats and governance challenges. Turkey is among Somalia’s key partners and has consistently voiced support for institutions in Mogadishu as the country contends with insurgent violence and political complexity. The statement did not provide new details on Turkish initiatives but underscored Ankara’s intent to remain engaged as developments unfold.
The call also continues the recent upward trajectory in Turkey–Saudi Arabia relations. After years of strained ties, the two regional powers have sought a reset, expanding high-level contacts and discussing cooperation across trade and investment. Sunday’s conversation, framed by both bilateral interests and regional crises, signals an intent to keep that momentum while coordinating on flash points that directly affect Gulf and Red Sea security, refugee flows, and energy and shipping routes.
Erdogan’s remarks on Gaza come amid mounting warnings from aid agencies that winter temperatures, shelter shortages, and limited access to essential supplies are compounding the humanitarian emergency. Turkey has repeatedly called for an immediate and lasting cease-fire and has positioned reconstruction and relief as priorities once conditions allow. The readout did not specify whether the leaders discussed concrete steps on Gaza beyond Turkey’s stated aims.
Neither side disclosed additional specifics about next steps on Yemen or Somalia. However, the emphasis on territorial integrity, dialogue among adversaries, and closer Ankara–Riyadh coordination suggests a continued push for diplomatic avenues at a time when conflicts across the region remain volatile and interlinked.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
