Erdogan for tensions in the Middle East: Turkey on alert, some are putting gasoline in fire “

Turkey's President, Recep Tayip Erdoğan, said his country is in a state of alarm due to the escalation of tensions in the Middle East, warning that some actors are worsening the situation.

After the cabinet meeting, Erdogan said Ankara is closely following developments in the region and that state institutions are on full alert since 28 February.

He also referred to the incident with an Iranian ballistic missile that, according to him, was launched towards Turkey and influenced by NATO. Erdogan named the move an extremely wrong “and provocative” on Iran's side.

“Since February 28th we're in a state of alert at all levels. We have mobilised all state institutions and are following developments minutes after minute”, he said.

The Turkish president also announced measures for strengthening the military presence in the Turkish-controlled northern part of Cyprus, suggesting that Turkey has deployed six F-16 fighter aircraft Fighting Falcon and air defence systems to boost security in the area.

Erdogan stressed that his government's top priority is the protection of Turkey and its citizens. Our aim is to keep our country out of this conflict. Turkey's security and the well-being of 86 million citizens is our top priority”, he said.He broadcast Panorama.

At the same time, the Turkish leader stressed that Ankara is trying to prevent the spread of the crisis in the Middle East through diplomatic contacts with international allies and partners.

“While some are throwing gasoline into the fire and trying to move the region towards destabilisation, we are trying to extinguish the flames and prevent the spread of conflict”, said Recep Tayip Erdoğan, adding that Turkey is ready to face any threat to its security.