Ankara: Supporting Palestine is a shared responsibility of all humanity, particularly the Muslim world, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated during a joint news conference with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the presidential palace in Ankara.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan stressed, "I want to once again emphasize that supporting Palestine is a shared responsibility of all humanity, particularly the Muslim world." He assured that Turkey would persist in vigorously advocating for the Palestinian cause across all platforms.
Erdogan criticized the current Israeli government, describing it as "genocidal" and accusing it of continuing illegal actions in the occupied West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem. He expressed concern over the undermining of a sovereign Palestinian state and emphasized that it is impossible to ignore or remain indifferent to the situation.
He reiterated Turkey's commitment to advancing the Palestinian cause through a two-state solution, in coordination with Palestinian counterparts. Erdogan highlighted ongoing issues such as occupation, forced displacement, and land seizures, which continue to escalate in the region.
Citing United Nations data, Erdogan revealed that approximately 3,800 Palestinians had been displaced in 2026 alone due to violence, demolitions, and evictions, with nearly 100 Palestinians killed. He described this as the result of a "systematic occupation" and a strategy aimed at weakening the Palestinian administration's ability to function independently.
Erdogan accused the Netanyahu government of attempting to divert global attention from Palestine by exploiting chaos and new conflicts, asserting that such efforts would not succeed. He called for immediate action to establish conditions necessary for rebuilding Gaza and ensuring security in the enclave.
He criticized the uncompromising and aggressive approach of Israel's current government, despite the Palestinians' constructive stance. Erdogan expressed strong opposition to provocations intended to alter the status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque and other holy sites.
Reaffirming Turkey's support for Palestinian statehood, Erdogan stated that Turkey would steadfastly work towards establishing an independent, geographically contiguous Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with occupied East Jerusalem as its capital. He welcomed the decision to hold legislative and presidential elections in Palestine, hoping it would promote reconciliation and strengthen Palestinian unity.
Erdogan concluded by expressing gratitude to President Abbas and his delegation for their visit, extending his heartfelt greetings and affection to the Palestinian people.