Ankara: Europe's security without Trkiye is unimaginable, said the nation's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday. Trkiye sees its EU membership process as a "strategic priority," asserting its position as an "inseparable part of Europe." President Erdogan emphasized this during an address to foreign ambassadors in Ankara, highlighting the critical role Trkiye plays in European security.

According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan stated, "It is becoming increasingly impossible for Europe to continue as a global actor without Trkiye taking its rightful place," during an iftar meal marking the end of the daytime fast for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. He urged Europe to recognize Trkiye's significance, stating, "We expect our European friends to face this reality and advance our full membership process with visionary perspective."

Erdogan expressed concern over the rise of Islamophobia in Europe, describing it as spreading "like poison ivy" in Western countries with sizable Muslim populations. He condemned attacks on the Holy Quran, calling them unacceptable when justified under the guise of freedom of opinion.

Addressing regional stability, Erdogan emphasized Trkiye's commitment to maintaining stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and Aegean. He noted efforts to preserve positive relations with Greece and contributions towards stability in the Balkans.

In his address, Erdogan also touched upon the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, warning that "Israel will not find the peace it seeks without the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with territorial integrity based on the 1967 borders." He criticized the Israeli government's actions concerning the West Bank and provocations at Al-Aqsa Mosque, labeling the mosque a "red line" for Trkiye.

Reaffirming Trkiye's unwavering support for Palestine, Erdogan highlighted the humanitarian aid provided to Gaza, totaling approximately 100,000 tons, with assistance from friendly nations. He mentioned Trkiye's involvement in international mechanisms like the International Court of Justice and the UN Human Rights Council, referring to the genocide case against Israel at the ICJ and noting that nine more countries have recently recognized Palestine as a sovereign state.