Speaking at the 5th General Assembly of the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum via video message, President Erdogan underscored Türkiye's endeavors to ensure international awareness of Israel's alleged human rights abuses and war crimes in Gaza.

Highlighting the necessity of collective diplomatic action among Islamic nations in response to Israel's actions, Erdogan referenced ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at fostering joint responses and solidarity.

Additionally, Erdogan reiterated Türkiye's steadfast support for the establishment of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state with global recognition, emphasizing Jerusalem as its capital.

The Gaza conflict erupted following a cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7, prompting a deadly offensive by Israel. The toll from the conflict includes at least 27,585 Palestinians killed and 66,978 injured, with nearly 1,200 Israelis believed to have died in the Hamas attack.

The Israeli offensive has resulted in significant displacement, with 85% of Gaza's population internally displaced and widespread shortages of essential resources such as food, clean water, and medicine. Moreover, approximately 60% of Gaza's infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed, as reported by the UN.

Despite an interim ruling by the International Court of Justice last month urging Israel to halt its alleged abuses, international observers assert that Israel has not complied with the ruling, prompting continued scrutiny of its actions. (ILKHA)