The Hague: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday hailed US President Donald Trump's efforts in achieving a ceasefire between Iran and Israel. "I told Trump that, referring to his efforts in the Israel-Iran ceasefire, the same level of effort is expected to help end the conflicts in Gaza as well as in the Russia-Ukraine war," Erdogan told reporters aboard his return flight from the NATO summit in the Netherlands.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan emphasized the importance of energy supply security, highlighting recent tensions between Iran and Israel. The Turkish president noted that while the closure of the Strait of Hormuz would pose significant challenges, he believes Iran is unlikely to take such an action. Erdogan assured that Turkey is diligently working to enhance its energy resources, continuing with oil and natural gas exploration activities to ensure stability in its energy supply.
The recent conflict saw Israel launching airstrikes on multiple sites across Iran, including military and nuclear facilities, accusing Tehran of nearing nuclear bomb production. Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes, prompting US intervention with bombings of Iranian nuclear sites. After twelve days of intense aerial combat, Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran.
During discussions with President Trump, Erdogan expressed Turkey's solution-oriented approach to regional issues and received a positive response from Trump. Erdogan highlighted Turkey's efforts to strengthen its air defense capabilities, including the development of the Steel Dome system and discussions with the US regarding the F-35 fighter jets program, which Turkey aims to rejoin after being unfairly removed.
Erdogan also addressed the situation in Syria, emphasizing Turkey's support for Syria's reunification and stability. He reiterated Turkey's stance on the preservation of Syria's territorial integrity and urged the Syrian Democratic Forces to seize the opportunity to collaborate under the Syrian army for the country's unity.
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, Erdogan stressed the need for a just and lasting peace, emphasizing Turkey's ongoing efforts to mediate and host future peace talks. Both Ukraine and Russia have expressed their trust in Turkey's mediating role, with previous negotiations in Istanbul paving the way for potential peace discussions at the leadership level.
On the Gaza crisis, Erdogan criticized Israel's actions, describing them as systematic torture and highlighting the obstruction of aid distribution. He mentioned discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, who pledged to speak with Israel on the issue. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel's offensive since October 2023 has resulted in significant Palestinian casualties. The International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice are pursuing cases against Israeli leaders for war crimes and genocide.