Erdogan Calls for Unity Among Islamic Nations to Support Palestinian and Lebanese Struggle

Istanbul, The Gulf Observer: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for unity within the Islamic world to support Palestinians and Lebanese people amid ongoing Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon. Speaking at the 40th Session of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation (COMCEC) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, Erdogan urged Islamic nations to set aside differences to confront what he described as a humanitarian disaster.

Addressing the COMCEC gathering on Monday, Erdogan labeled the unfolding crisis in Gaza as “one of the most brutal genocides of the century.” He stressed the need for solidarity among Islamic nations, emphasizing the importance of transcending political divisions to champion Palestinian and Lebanese rights.

“It is of great importance for the Islamic world to put aside differences and support the Palestinian and Lebanese people,” Erdogan asserted, condemning what he referred to as the “oppression and violence” perpetrated by the Zionist regime and its supporters. Erdogan commended the Palestinians for their resilience amid prolonged hardship.

In response to the crisis, Erdogan highlighted Türkiye’s commitment to humanitarian aid, confirming the delivery of over 85,000 tons of relief supplies to Gaza with cooperation from Egyptian authorities. The Turkish President also advocated for international recognition of Palestinian statehood as a response to Israeli actions, asserting that such recognition would carry a significant message of solidarity.

Erdogan’s remarks came amid an intensified Israeli military offensive in Gaza, continuing despite a United Nations Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire. Health officials in Gaza report a mounting death toll exceeding 43,300, with the majority of casualties being women and children. More than 102,000 have sustained injuries, and Israel now faces accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice over its military actions in Gaza.

As Erdogan’s call for unity reverberates across the Islamic world, the OIC session in Istanbul remains a focal point for discussions on economic and humanitarian collaboration among member states, with a growing emphasis on addressing crises affecting Muslim communities worldwide.