Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has denounced Israel’s actions in Gaza, urging concrete steps from the international community to address what he describes as ongoing atrocities. The president’s remarks encompass a range of criticisms directed at Israel, the United States, and the broader Western alliance.
President Erdogan took the opportunity to criticise Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling for a united front against what he deemed as oppression and barbarism.
Erdogan commended UN Chief Antonio Guterres for his stance on the conflict, describing him as standing by the right and the just. Erdogan expressed gratitude for the support of the UN Chief and called for more leaders to follow suit in condemning Israel’s actions.
At the same time, the Turkish President expressed disappointment with the West, particularly the United States, for its steady support of Israel.
He accused the Western powers of claiming to strive for a better roadmap while simultaneously endorsing Israel’s actions. The president cited the UN resolutions as the most appropriate roadmap for a resolution.
The Turkish president also highlighted that the majority of countries have taken a stance against Israel’s actions, sending a clear message to the world that the United States and Israel are not on the right side of the issue.
President Erdogan delved into the historical roots of the conflict, noting that Israel’s attacks on Palestinians date back to 1947, a year before the establishment of the state of Israel. He argued that oppression and barbarism have a long history and challenged the international community to acknowledge the longstanding issue.
Erdogan pointed to a comparison of maps from 1947 to the present day, underscoring the need for global awareness and action to address what he considers an ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Erdogan announced Turkey’s willingness to intervene and help resolve the hostage crisis. He proposed a reciprocal release of hostages—Israel releasing Palestinians and Hamas releasing Israelis. Erdogan pointed out that Hamas has indicated a readiness to release civilians.
Erdogan criticised Israel for arresting minors and turning them into prisoners, particularly in the context of the current hostage crisis. He highlighted that the hostages held by Hamas reportedly include high-ranking officers. Erdogan called for the immediate release of Palestinians, especially women and children, who have been arrested by Israel in the West Bank and Gaza.
Providing insight into Turkey’s diplomatic efforts, Erdogan outlined the priorities for the upcoming Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Riyadh. The main theme of the summit will be the Israeli aggression against Palestinians, with a focus on detailed discussions and negotiations to achieve an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.
Erdogan expressed anticipation that decisions made at the Riyadh summit would be decisive steps aimed at stopping Israel’s actions in the conflict. Alongside Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan, Turkey plans to discuss specific actions that each country can take to address the situation.
The Turkish president urged Western countries to put pressure on Israel to implement UN resolutions if they are sincere about a ceasefire. The goal is to push Israel to allow the passage of wounded and sick individuals in besieged Gaza through a humanitarian corridor where medical services can be provided.
Erdogan added that without resolving the Israel issue, there can be no talk of peace in the region or the world. He emphasised that a comprehensive international legal order cannot be fully realised until the Israel-Palestine problem is adequately addressed.
