By Jonny Dymond BBC Istanbul correspondent

Turkey has invited the leaders of five Middle Eastern countries to hold a summit aimed at averting war with Iraq.

Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Iran have been asked to attend, following visits to the five countries by Turkish Prime Minister Abdullah Gul over the last 10 days.

Turkey is re-establishing its credentials in the Middle East

Emboldened by the success of his regional tour, Mr Gul is continuing in his efforts to bring regional pressure to bear on Iraq.

Turkey was pleased with the reception it received from Arab leaders.

Relations between Turkey and its neighbours have been much worse in the recent past.

Now it seems that the Turkish administration believes it can capitalise on the region's deep concerns about the impact of a war.

Reports suggest that a declaration for the leaders to sign is already being drawn up.

It seems likely that it will take the form of a strong warning to the Iraqi leader, Saddam Hussein, that he must comply with United Nations resolutions.

Balancing act

Turkey is in a curious position.

It is deeply concerned about the impact of war on its economy and regional stability, but it is under pressure to allow the United States use of its facilities, in particular air bases along its border with Iraq.

US military personnel are currently inspecting bases and ports to see how much modification might be required.

Step by step, Turkey is moving closer to war but, as the call for a summit shows, it has not given up working for peace.