Ankara: Trkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday warned that targeting commercial and civilian ships in the Black Sea benefits no one, referring to recent attacks linked to the Russia-Ukraine war. Addressing the 16th Ambassadors Conference in the capital Ankara, Erdogan said the attacks threaten navigation safety in the Black Sea, and that Ankara conveyed warnings to both sides (Russia-Ukraine) on this matter.

According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan emphasized that Trkiye has strictly enforced the Montreux Convention to prevent the war from spreading to the Black Sea. However, he expressed concern that recent reciprocal attacks significantly threaten navigation safety in the region. Ankara had earlier declared attacks on vessels within its exclusive economic zone as unacceptable.

Erdogan also highlighted Trkiye's stance on regional stability, mentioning the country's efforts in maintaining a ceasefire in Gaza and providing over 103,000 tons of humanitarian aid despite restrictions. He urged for immediate reconstruction efforts in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the severe impact on its small area and its population.

On the international front, Erdogan reiterated Trkiye's mediating role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, including initiatives like the Black Sea Grain Initiative and prisoner exchanges. Additionally, he criticized Tel Aviv's actions against Syria, citing them as obstacles to security and stability in the region.

The Turkish president also addressed the ongoing Syrian civil war, highlighting the tremendous loss of life and displacement. He noted the return of 580,000 Syrian refugees to their homeland from Trkiye, with hopes for a continued voluntary and dignified return as stability improves.

In the South Caucasus, Erdogan mentioned ongoing dialogues with Baku and Yerevan, expressing optimism for a peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan. He also underscored Trkiye's growing global influence, with Turkish-speaking communities contributing to various sectors worldwide.

Erdogan concluded by reflecting on the broader global issues, pointing out that recent developments have exacerbated humanitarian crises and instability instead of resolving them. He cited historical atrocities and ongoing conflicts as reminders of the need for effective international responses.