Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a press conference at the Presidential Complex following the Presidential Cabinet Meeting, reaffirming Türkiye’s support for Palestine and condemning Israel’s genocide in Gaza.

The President's remarks addressed a wide range of issues, from international conflicts to Türkiye’s legal and diplomatic initiatives.

Türkiye’s Support for Palestine

“Türkiye stands with Palestine during these difficult days of fight for survival and supports its Palestinian brothers and sisters with all of its means. It is Türkiye that takes the clearest and strongest action against Israel’s genocidal policies,” Erdoğan stated emphatically. He highlighted Türkiye's unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause, underscoring the nation's readiness to provide all necessary support to the Palestinian people in their struggle for survival and independence.

Criticism of Western Actors

Addressing the broader geopolitical landscape, Erdoğan criticized Western countries, particularly the United States, for their perceived inaction and complicity regarding Israel’s actions. “Western actors, particularly the United States, have unfortunately become captives of Israel and a handful of fanatic Zionists,” he said. He lamented the lack of effective intervention from Western powers, which he claimed had allowed Israel to continue its aggressive policies unchecked.

Erdoğan also touched upon the prolonged conflict between Russia and Ukraine, noting that the war had reached its 2.5-year mark with no resolution in sight. He described the ongoing violence in Gaza as a critical issue, marking a significant escalation with the martyrdom of Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh. “The Netanyahu government’s stance that knows no law and no rule leaves our region face to face with bad scenarios,” Erdoğan added, emphasizing the dire consequences of Israel's policies on regional stability.

Türkiye’s Legal Action Against Israel

In a significant legal move, Erdoğan announced Türkiye's decision to intervene in the genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. “We have already announced our decision to intervene in the genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. We are taking a concrete step on this issue on Wednesday. Our Parliament’s legal team will submit a petition on August 7 to the International Court of Justice in The Hague for joining the case,” he declared. This initiative represents a formal and robust stance by Türkiye in seeking justice for the Palestinians through international legal channels.

Condemnation of Social Media Attacks

Erdoğan also addressed the hostile reactions and misinformation campaigns against Türkiye on social media. “The impertinent statements made on a daily basis shows the discomfort our country’s resolute stance causes in the Netanyahu government. No matter what the bloodthirsty genocide network does, it won’t stop Türkiye and the Turkish nation from standing in solidarity with the Palestinians,” he asserted. He emphasized Türkiye's commitment to countering false narratives and defending its position against online defamation.

Largest Prisoner Swap Since World War II

Highlighting Türkiye’s role in facilitating significant humanitarian efforts, Erdoğan announced the successful execution of the largest prisoner swap since World War II. “26 individuals in jails in the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, Russia, and Belarus have been exchanged without any issues, setting an example for the world,” he said. He praised Türkiye’s National Intelligence Organization (MİT) for its meticulous and effective handling of the swap, which showcased Türkiye's diplomatic and operational prowess on the global stage.

Erdoğan expressed his gratitude to the MİT and its personnel for their unwavering dedication and critical role in protecting the state against various threats. “I wholeheartedly congratulate our National Intelligence Organization and its personnel that played a critical role in this swap, which demonstrates Türkiye’s key role beyond its humanitarian aspect. I once again thank MİT’s unsung heroes who have protected our state against countless attacks, treasons, and provocations, even at the cost of their lives when necessary, for 97 years,” he stated.

The press conference underscored Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Palestine and taking decisive legal actions against Israel, while also showcasing its diplomatic efforts in international humanitarian initiatives. President Erdoğan’s remarks highlighted Türkiye’s active role in addressing regional conflicts, defending human rights, and promoting justice on the international stage. (ILKHA)