Erdoğan and Herzog discussed the bilateral relations and regional issues, particularly the incidents some Israeli radical groups and security forces have recently caused in Palestine, the Turkish presidency said in a statement.

“Türkiye will continue to work for the establishment of peace and serenity under all circumstances”

During the call, Erdoğan said: “It has deeply saddened us that over 400 Palestinians have been injured and 18 people, including children, have been killed in the incidents that have been taking place in the West Bank and al-Aqsa Mosque since the beginning of the month of Ramadan. We have been further saddened by the undesired scenes that were witnessed when fanatic groups raided al-Aqsa Mosque and interventions took place afterward following the morning prayer yesterday and the day before yesterday as well as by the fact that the tensions spilled over to Gaza as well. Such undesired scenes, which are witnessed every year because of some radicals while festivals should rather take place in an atmosphere of the festival, hurt the conscience and prompt rightful reaction from the entire Islamic world. I would like to stress once again the necessity of not allowing provocations and threats against al-Aqsa Mosque’s status and spirituality during this sensitive period. I reiterate my call for all to take the utmost care to protect the spirituality of this sacred site and of these sacred days. As Türkiye, we will continue to work for the establishment of peace and serenity under all circumstances.” (ILKHA)