The leaders discussed a range of critical issues, focusing heavily on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as migration and rising Islamophobia.

President Erdoğan condemned Israel’s genocide in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories, as well as its attacks on Lebanon. “The humanitarian tragedy in the region continues,” Erdoğan stated, urging the international community to take action for an immediate ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian aid. He stressed that peace in the region is impossible while these massacres persist.

Over 50,000 people have been killed, according to Erdoğan, and he called on global leaders to take responsibility and oppose Israel’s aggressive policies. “Türkiye will maintain the conscientious stance it has displayed since the very first day,” he added.

Erdoğan also addressed legal actions being taken against Israel, highlighting that Türkiye, alongside South Africa, has initiated processes at the International Court of Justice regarding the situation in Gaza. He pointedly responded to recent statements made by Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen about him, urging reporters to investigate the reasons behind such comments.

On the issue of migration, President Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to accepting refugees, particularly from Syria, and mentioned the possibility of taking in Turkmen refugees from Lebanon. “Our doors have always been open to refugees,” he emphasized, noting the current presence of 3.5 million Syrian refugees in Türkiye.

Erdoğan also touched on the issue of Islamophobia, particularly in Europe, and called for stronger cooperation between Türkiye and Germany in the fight against terrorism. He emphasized that organizations like the PKK and FETO contribute to Islamophobia in Germany and expressed his commitment to working closely with Chancellor Scholz on combating these groups.

In response to questions about Israel’s ongoing military actions, Erdoğan accused the Netanyahu government of expanding the war from Gaza into Lebanon, where massacres were being carried out. He criticized Western countries, particularly the United States, for providing Israel with weapons and resources that enable its military operations. Despite this, Erdoğan affirmed Türkiye's efforts to send humanitarian aid, including food and supplies, to the region through organizations like the Turkish Red Crescent (Kızılay).

Erdoğan concluded by underscoring Türkiye's determination to continue supporting Palestinians and those affected by the conflict, both diplomatically and through humanitarian means. (ILKHA)