Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz hosted Lebanese Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri and his delegation in Ankara on Wednesday, emphasizing the need for stronger regional unity in response to Israel’s expansionist policies.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed recent regional developments, with a particular focus on Israel’s ongoing attacks on Lebanon and their severe humanitarian consequences for the country.

“Strengthening regional solidarity against Israel’s expansionist policies carries great importance,” Yılmaz stated on the Turkish social media platform NSosyal.

He added that “any attack on Lebanon’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, or unity constitutes a clear violation of international law.”

Yılmaz reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Lebanon’s security, stability, and economic development. The discussions highlighted priorities including the expansion of bilateral cooperation in economy, energy, and defense sectors, the promotion of inclusive policies within Lebanon, and joint efforts to bolster stability in Syria.

Humanitarian assistance remains a cornerstone of Ankara’s support, delivered through the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (AFAD), and the Turkish Red Crescent.

Yılmaz expressed hope that enhanced cooperation between the two countries would contribute to peace, stability, and prosperity in Lebanon and the broader region.

The talks come as Israeli strikes continue in Lebanon this week, breaching a fragile ceasefire that had been in place since mid-April. The attacks persist despite a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at ending hostilities across multiple fronts, including Lebanon.

Israel launched its offensive on Lebanon on March 2. According to the latest official figures, the campaign has killed over 3,800 people, wounded more than 11,800, and displaced over 1 million others. (ILKHA)