Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday condemned Israel's "act of piracy" against the global Sumud humanitarian flotilla en route to Gaza to deliver aid to Palestinians.

According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan addressed a Justice and Development (AK) Party provincial heads meeting, expressing his strong disapproval of Israel's actions. He stated that the attack on civilians in international waters was an attempt by Israel to conceal its actions in Gaza. Erdogan accused the "genocidal Netanyahu government" of being unable to tolerate peace and highlighted the flotilla's mission to draw attention to the dire conditions in Gaza.

Erdogan further emphasized that the Global Sumud Flotilla has exposed the severe situation in Gaza and criticized what he referred to as Israel's "murderous face." He assured continued support for Palestinians, pledging efforts to secure a ceasefire and restore peace.

Turkish officials are actively monitoring the situation and taking steps to ensure the safety of Turkish nationals aboard the flotilla, Erdogan noted.