Ankara: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan declared on Wednesday that Ankara would not endorse US President Donald Trump's plan to take over Gaza and forcibly displace its people. Fidan emphasized the need for the proposal to be dismissed and not taken seriously.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan highlighted that only the US and Israel support the proposal, while the rest of the world opposes it. He reiterated Trkiye's commitment to reducing conflicts and ceasing wars in regions like the Middle East, Caucasus, Balkans, Black Sea, Mediterranean, and Aegean. Fidan stressed that achieving peace would facilitate economic development and basic services for people.
Fidan criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government for viewing security through regional expansion rather than a two-state solution. He warned against Israel's broader territorial ambitions, pointing out their plans to annex Palestinian lands and occupy Lebanon and Syria. Fidan cautioned that such policies lack sustainability, despite current US support.
Regarding Syria, Fidan reaffirmed Ankara's dedication to maintaining Syria's territorial integrity and condemned interventions by terrorist groups or Israel. He praised the resilience of the Syrian people amid years of sacrifices, highlighting their resistance to foreign occupation. Fidan also noted the end of Bashar al-Assad's regime after anti-regime groups took control of Damascus.
On the Ukraine conflict, Fidan mentioned Trkiye's diplomatic efforts and signs of a nearing ceasefire. He noted preparation for negotiations by Washington and Moscow and predicted concrete steps toward ending the war by summer. Fidan discussed shifting European security dynamics and potential alternative structures outside NATO.
Fidan reiterated Trkiye's commitment to EU membership, despite challenges and political obstacles. He called for a constructive and strategic EU approach aligned with Trkiye's candidacy status. Fidan emphasized the need for European reconsideration under new global conditions.
On Gaza, Fidan strongly opposed Trump's takeover plan, urging Arab nations to stand against Israeli actions. He defended Hamas's legitimacy within the Palestinian state structure and highlighted Israeli occupation as the root cause of resistance. Fidan warned that suppressing Hamas without addressing grievances would lead to stronger resistance movements.
Lastly, Fidan addressed the Sudan conflict, calling it a tragic situation for the Muslim world. He emphasized Trkiye's humanitarian efforts and urged greater Islamic world involvement. Fidan concluded with a commitment to peace through Trkiye's constructive foreign policy under President Erdogan's leadership. The Sudan conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement since April 2023, according to the UN and local authorities.