Ankara: Trkiye expects Israel to comply with the ceasefire, the Turkish Defense Ministry said Thursday. At a weekly press briefing, ministry spokesperson Rear Adm. Zeki Akturk expressed Trkiye's condemnation of Israel's recent attacks in Gaza on Jan. 31, which resulted in numerous fatalities. These actions occur at a time when a permanent ceasefire is anticipated, and efforts are underway to stabilize Gaza.
According to Anadolu Agency, Akturk highlighted the detrimental impact of Israel's attacks on Lebanon, which obstruct efforts to establish lasting peace and stability in the region. He stated, "Our expectation is that Israel will abide by the Peace Plan adopted by a UN Security Council resolution, comply with the ceasefire, and allow humanitarian aid to reach Gaza."
In response to a question about the situation in Syria, the ministry stated that Trkiye welcomes the Jan. 30 agreement between the Syrian government and the terrorist organization YPG/SDF. The ministry is closely monitoring on-ground developments and emphasizes the importance of integration processes that reinforce Syria's unitary structure and the principle of "one state, one army." The statement stresses the need for transparency and mutual trust in all planned activities.
Trkiye also addressed issues in the Aegean, stating that mutual dialogue is essential for peace and fairness. The statement emphasized Trkiye's position on Greece's intentions to extend territorial waters in the Aegean Sea to 12 miles. Trkiye argues for a fair sharing of maritime jurisdiction areas through mutual dialogue and goodwill, condemning Greece's unilateral actions as contrary to international law.
Regarding the military framework agreement between Trkiye and Egypt, the statement noted its aim to enhance defense cooperation through information and expertise exchange. Additionally, the statement highlighted Turkish forces' ongoing support in strengthening Somalia's counter-terrorism capacity through military assistance, training, and advisory activities. The Air Component Command in Somalia has been bolstered with new deployments to aid in the fight against terrorism.