Erdogan Calls on Islamic World and Global Community to Ensure Lasting Peace for Palestinians
Ankara, The Gulf Observer: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the duty of the Islamic world and the global community to secure lasting peace for Palestinians, addressing the opening of the Turkish parliament’s new legislative year on Wednesday.
Speaking in parliament, Erdogan praised the legislative body for “passing the Gaza test with pride,” asserting that it acted “in a manner worthy of our history and national character.” He underscored that Türkiye has delivered a strong response to Israel’s ongoing actions in Gaza, reflecting the country’s vocal stance on the escalating humanitarian crisis.
“Gaza has had enough of blood, tears, and destruction. This shame must end immediately,” Erdogan said, urging an immediate halt to violence in the besieged enclave. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to establishing a sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital along the 1967 borders, pledging that the country will persist in its efforts “until the final breath.”
Erdogan highlighted Türkiye’s moral and historical responsibility, describing the nation as “a moral beacon of its time” and praising the Palestinian people for witnessing and appreciating Türkiye’s sustained support. He added, “We never abandoned the brave sons of Gaza who heroically resisted invading forces that attacked their land with the world’s most modern weapons.”
The president also referenced the recent 20-point Gaza ceasefire plan unveiled by US President Donald Trump, which outlines measures including prisoner exchanges, Hamas disarmament, phased Israeli withdrawal, and the formation of an apolitical Palestinian governance committee. Erdogan noted that while the plan offers a potential pathway to Palestinian self-determination, it does not guarantee statehood.
Looking forward, Erdogan expressed hope for lasting peace across the region, invoking the slogan for a free Palestine and stating: “I sincerely hope that we will see beautiful days when peace, tranquility, and security prevail, from the river to the sea.”
Turning to Syria, Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye’s support for the country’s territorial integrity and opposition to partition plans. He stressed that Ankara is employing all diplomatic channels to safeguard Syria’s sovereignty and prevent any cross-border terrorist activity. “We will never allow our Kurdish brothers across the border to be exploited by terrorist groups or by nations and actors hostile to Turks, Kurds, Arabs, or Muslims,” he warned, adding that Türkiye will act decisively if diplomatic efforts fail.
Erdogan’s remarks also referenced recent political changes in Syria, including the departure of President Bashar Assad to Russia in December and the formation of a transitional administration led by Ahmad al-Sharaa in January.
