Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has issued a stark warning regarding Israel's recent attacks on Lebanon, stating that they may lead to the expansion of conflict across the region.

Speaking at an event hosted by the Turkish-American National Steering Committee (TASC) in New York, Erdogan emphasized the danger of escalating violence and criticized Israel’s actions in the Palestinian territories, particularly Gaza.

"The recent attacks against Lebanon and the recent statements made by Israel are a clear manifestation of the efforts to spread the war to the region," Erdogan remarked. He arrived in the US on Saturday to address the 79th session of the UN General Assembly scheduled for Tuesday.

Erdogan condemned the ongoing genocide by Israel in the Gaza Strip, saying it threatens regional peace. He also accused international institutions of failing to take effective action to end the violence.

"Global institutions and organizations have taken no effective steps to end the oppression in Gaza or prevent Israel's massacre," he said. He added that the ongoing massacre in Gaza, which has lasted for 352 days, underscores the moral collapse of institutions responsible for global peace and security.

Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to opposing Israeli policies, describing them as "occupation, invasion, and massacre." He stressed that Türkiye would not remain silent on attacks against the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque, which holds deep significance in Islam as the first qibla (direction of prayer).

"We have not remained silent and will not remain silent against any attack on the sanctity and historical status of Al-Aqsa Mosque," Erdogan declared.

Addressing the Turkish-American community, Erdogan praised Turkish businessmen and entrepreneurs for their success in the US while urging them to maintain their identity and values. He emphasized the importance of integration without assimilation.

"We want our citizens to stand out in every field... However, we do not want our people to lose their identity, core values, and beliefs," he said.

Erdogan also warned the Turkish diaspora to remain vigilant against supporters of anti-Türkiye operations, specifically the PKK and FETO, groups that Ankara designates as terrorist organizations.

He expressed concern over rising far-right movements and hate speech in Europe and the US, calling for legal action against Islamophobia, which he likened to racism.

While in New York, Erdogan held separate meetings with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and Serbian Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic, where they discussed bilateral relations and broader regional issues.

Additionally, alongside First Lady Emine Erdogan, the president visited the Turken Foundation and met with US think tank representatives for a roundtable discussion on international affairs. (ILKHA)