Istanbul: It is 'very important' that Gaza remain the land of the Palestinian people, and that they ultimately govern the enclave, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday. Speaking to journalists on his way back from Azerbaijan, where he attended an Organization of Turkic States summit, Erdogan highlighted Trkiye's priority to 'achieve an urgent and comprehensive ceasefire as soon as possible.'
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan stressed the need for uninterrupted humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza and the restoration of its infrastructure destroyed by Israeli attacks. He underscored the importance of Gaza being governed by Palestinians and mentioned ongoing talks in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, regarding US President Trump's ceasefire proposal. Erdogan noted that Turkish National Intelligence Organization chief Ibrahim Kalin would participate in these negotiations, emphasizing their significance.
Erdogan revealed discussions with Trump regarding a solution for Palestine and noted that Trump asked Trkiye to engage with Hamas to facilitate peace negotiations. Erdogan conveyed that Hamas is ready for peace, describing this as a valuable step. He also discussed the Global Sumud humanitarian aid flotilla that was attacked by Israel, highlighting its role in challenging the blockade on Gaza and bringing humanitarian aid to the region.
Turning to Syria, Erdogan emphasized the need for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate with Syria, referencing an agreement from March. He stated that Trkiye is closely monitoring developments and reiterated the importance of Syria's territorial integrity. Erdogan affirmed Trkiye's commitment to standing with the Syrian people and maintaining stability in the region.
Erdogan also addressed ongoing negotiations with the US concerning the F-35 fighter jets and CAATSA sanctions. He expressed hope for a resolution and the lifting of sanctions, emphasizing the importance of strengthening Turkish-US relations. Erdogan mentioned that the F-35 issue and Halkbank's legal case remain significant topics in discussions with the US.
The US Supreme Court recently rejected Halkbank's appeal regarding charges of money laundering and conspiracy to help Iran evade US sanctions. Erdogan noted Trump's past statements indicating the conclusion of the Halkbank issue and expressed hope for a positive resolution of the remaining legal processes.