Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Wednesday that Trkiye is prepared to contribute in various ways to halt the ongoing massacre in Gaza and establish a lasting cease-fire. This comes in the wake of escalating violence in the region, with Israel reportedly responsible for over 43,000 deaths in Gaza following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.

According to Anadolu Agency, President Joe Biden indicated on Tuesday that the United States would collaborate with nations including Trkiye, Egypt, Qatar, and Israel to push for a cease-fire and hostage exchange deal in Gaza. Biden’s statement marked the first acknowledgment of Trkiye’s involvement in the mediation efforts aimed at resolving the 14-month conflict.

During a parliamentary group meeting of Trkiye’s AK Party, Erdogan expressed support for the newly announced cease-fire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, effective from 4 a.m. local time. He emphasized the importance of all parties, particularly Israel, in adhering to their res
ponsibilities to maintain peace.

The cease-fire, brokered with the assistance of US and French diplomatic efforts, follows a period of intense hostilities. Hezbollah initiated missile, rocket, and drone attacks against Israel last October as a show of solidarity with Gaza and to pressure Israel into agreeing to a cease-fire. In response, Israel conducted extensive airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions and launched a ground invasion in late September.

Erdogan highlighted Trkiye’s growing influence in global politics, noting its ongoing efforts to address regional crises, including the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war. He also reiterated Trkiye’s commitment to countering terrorism, specifically targeting the PKK and its affiliates. Erdogan stated that Trkiye plans to establish a security belt along its southern border to eliminate terrorist threats.

The PKK, recognized as a terrorist organization by Trkiye, the US, and the EU, has been involved in a 40-year conflict with Trkiye, resulting in over 40,000 casua
lties. The YPG, the PKK’s Syrian branch, has intensified its attacks in Syria, which Erdogan attributes to the group’s anticipation of its impending defeat.