Turkish FM Condemns Israel’s Actions at Rafah Border

Ankara, The Gulf Observer: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has highlighted the serious risk of the Gaza conflict spilling over into neighboring regions following the killing of an Egyptian soldier by Israeli forces at the Rafah border crossing. Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday alongside his Cambodian counterpart Sok Chenda Sophea, who is on an official visit to the Turkish capital, Fidan criticized the United States and other Western nations for their support of Israel.

“It would not be possible for this genocide to continue without the support of some countries, especially the US, for Israel,” Fidan stated.

The Egyptian army reported on Monday that a soldier was killed in a shooting near the Gaza border and that it is investigating the incident. The Israeli army confirmed an exchange of fire with Egyptian forces at the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza on the same day.

Fidan also stressed the importance of increased recognition of Palestinian statehood, arguing that it is essential to counter Israel’s expanding control over Palestinian territories through illegal settlements.

“Palestinian statehood is crucial because Israel is increasingly taking control of more Palestinian territories through illegal settlements,” he emphasized.

Fidan noted that although the international community has lagged in recognizing the Palestinian state, there is a growing positive momentum. He thanked his Cambodian counterpart for efforts to enhance Türkiye-Cambodia relations.

His remarks come as Spain, Ireland, and Norway move to recognize Palestine. On Tuesday, Spain formally recognized Palestine following a government decision, while Ireland and Norway are expected to recognize it as a state later in the day.

Fidan’s comments underscore the heightened tensions and the international diplomatic efforts surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.