Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday expressed that Turkiye is willing to actively contribute to halting the ongoing violence in Gaza and establishing a lasting cease-fire. Addressing the parliamentary group of the ruling AK Party, Erdogan underscored the urgency of stopping what he described as a “massacre” in Gaza, where over 43,000 people have reportedly been killed since October 7, 2023, following Hamas’s attacks on Israel.
Turkiye Joins Mediation Efforts for Gaza Cease-Fire
US President Joe Biden recently highlighted Türkiye’s role in international mediation, mentioning it for the first time as a key player alongside Egypt, Qatar, and others in brokering a cease-fire and facilitating a potential hostage exchange in Gaza. Erdogan affirmed Türkiye’s readiness to engage in all necessary diplomatic efforts to achieve peace in the region, aligning with broader international calls to end the 14-month-long conflict.
Turkiye Welcomes Israel-Lebanon Cease-Fire Agreement
In addition to addressing Gaza, Erdogan welcomed the newly announced cease-fire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, which took effect early Wednesday morning. Brokered through US and French diplomatic efforts, the truce followed months of escalated hostilities.
Cross-border violence between Israel and Hezbollah had intensified since last October, with Hezbollah launching ballistic missiles, rockets, and drone attacks to show solidarity with Gaza. In response, Israel conducted massive airstrikes and launched a ground invasion of southern Lebanon in September and early October.
Erdogan urged all parties, particularly Israel, to honor their commitments under the cease-fire agreement to maintain calm on the ground.
Turkiye’s Role in Regional Stability
Reaffirming Türkiye’s growing influence in global politics, Erdogan highlighted the nation’s proactive approach to resolving regional conflicts. Apart from its involvement in the Middle East, Türkiye continues to mediate in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which has surpassed 1,000 days of fighting.
Focus on Counterterrorism Efforts
Erdogan also discussed Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to secure its southern borders from terrorist threats. Referring to the establishment of a security belt stretching from the Mediterranean to the Iranian border, he emphasized progress in countering the PKK and its Syrian affiliate, the YPG.
The PKK, designated as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the US, and the EU, has been responsible for over 40,000 deaths during its four-decade-long campaign, including civilians and children. Erdogan attributed the PKK’s recent escalations in Syria to its fear of facing imminent defeat.
“Step by step, we will finalize our project to free the southern borders of our country from the threats of terrorist organizations,” Erdogan stated, reiterating Türkiye’s commitment to counterterrorism.
Turkiye’s Vision Amid Global Challenges
Erdogan’s remarks reflect Ankara’s aspirations to play a central role in fostering peace and stability amid global and regional conflicts. From addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza to tackling terrorism and mediating high-stakes international disputes, Turkiye positions itself as a key actor in shaping the future of the region.
The developments come amid intensifying calls from the global community for immediate action to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and ensure long-term stability in the Middle East.
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