Erdogan: Hamas is a resistance movement, not a terrorist organization

In a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan defended the Islamic Resistance Movement, Hamas, as a resistance movement that defends its occupied territories.
14.05.2024 00:10:36 / English News

“I do not see Hamas as a terrorist organization, on the contrary, I see it as people struggling to protect their land and people,” Erdogan stated. He called on the international community, particularly Western countries, to speak out against the killing of more than 35,000 innocent Palestinian civilians.

The Turkish President also expressed his commitment to continue diplomatic contacts to force Israel to cease fire and to increase recognition of Palestine.

During the bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Mitsotakis, Erdogan described the talks as sincere and constructive. He highlighted the goal of increasing their bilateral trade volume from six billion dollars last year to 10 billion dollars. He also mentioned the agreement signed between the Foreign Economic Relations Board and the Union Of Hellenic Chambers Of Commerce, which he believes will contribute significantly to their efforts.

Erdogan emphasized that the fight against terrorist organizations such as FETO, PKK, and DHKP/C is at the top of their agenda. He expressed his belief that there is no room for terrorist organizations in the future of their region. He also shared his expectations from Greece, their neighbor and NATO ally, particularly in terms of minority rights and the Cyprus issue.

The Turkish President noted that they have exchanged views on regional developments, particularly the ongoing genocide in Gaza. He criticized the Israeli administration for ignoring calls for a ceasefire and continuing to target Rafah, the last haven of innocent civilians.

Erdogan praised the resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on the full membership of Palestine. He thanked Greece, one of the 143 member countries that supported the resolution. He also expressed Türkiye's determination to maintain diplomatic talks aimed at pushing Israel for a ceasefire and increasing the recognition of the Palestinian state.

Erdogan concluded by thanking Prime Minister Mitsotakis for voting for the UN resolution and expressing his disagreement with those who label Hamas as a 'terrorist organization'. He revealed that over one thousand Hamas members are currently under treatment in Türkiye's hospitals.

Following the joint press conference, President Erdoğan hosted an official dinner in honor of Prime Minister Mitsotakis of Greece. (ILKHA)