President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan addressed the nation following the Presidential Cabinet Meeting at the Presidential Complex, focusing on Türkiye's humanitarian and diplomatic efforts for Gaza and broader regional stability.

Erdoğan highlighted Türkiye's commitment to alleviating the suffering in Gaza, stating, "With the Red Crescent (Kızılay), AFAD, NGOs, and charities, we have been endeavoring in a spirit of full mobilization to alleviate the suffering of the Gazan people." He emphasized intensified diplomatic efforts aimed at pressuring the Israeli government, expressing hopes for peace: "We are doing whatever it takes to open a door that will rekindle hopes for peace in Gaza."

Reflecting on the past year's challenges, Erdoğan welcomed 2025 with prayers for peace and liberation, particularly for Gaza. "I pray to Allah that the new year may lead to auspicious developments for all people in our country and region as well as across the world," he stated, hoping for a ceasefire and peace in Gaza.

The President reaffirmed Türkiye's stance on Palestinian statehood, saying, "An independent, sovereign, and territorially integral State of Palestine with East al-Quds as its capital will eventually be established based on the 1967 borders."

Erdoğan underscored Türkiye's geopolitical significance and the necessity of deterrence, quoting, "You must always be prepared for war if you want peace and liberation." He emphasized that the country's defense investments aim to secure peace and independence rather than promote conflict. "We highlight at every opportunity our policy that Türkiye is a source of security and confidence for its friends," he added, while warning against any threats to Türkiye's sovereignty.

Discussing the situation in Syria, Erdoğan described the Syrian revolution as ushering in a new era, applauding the new Syrian administration's efforts to rebuild. He pledged Türkiye's support for Syria's unity and integrity, warning against any attempts to destabilize the region through terrorism: "The only fate awaiting those who choose terrorism and violence is to be buried in the ground with their weapons."

Erdoğan concluded with a strong message of Türkiye's readiness to protect its interests and regional peace, stating, "If it comes to that point, we may come again suddenly one night. We have more than enough strength, capacity, and capability to do so."

This press conference marks a reaffirmation of Türkiye's multifaceted approach towards regional stability, humanitarian aid, and strategic defense under President Erdoğan's leadership. (ILKHA)