Turkey is gravely concerned about Israel’s escalating rhetoric and attacks on Lebanon, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated on Tuesday. He emphasized that the region’s safety, including Turkey’s, is compromised as long as Israeli aggression under Prime Minister Netanyahu’s administration persists. Erdogan’s remarks followed a cabinet meeting in Ankara.
The border conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has intensified since the Gaza war’s eruption in October. Hezbollah has tied the cessation of its attacks to an end to Israel’s assault on Gaza, which has resulted in nearly 38,000 Palestinian deaths and severe humanitarian issues. Regarding Turkey’s foreign policy, Erdogan advocated for diplomacy, stating, “We believe it is beneficial to open clenched fists in foreign policy. We will not hesitate to meet with whoever is necessary for this purpose.” He emphasized prioritizing Turkey’s interests while ensuring that allies are not disadvantaged.
Erdogan assured that Turkey would continue to secure its nation and people against “bloodthirsty groups” in Syria. He highlighted Turkey’s efforts over the past 13 years to find a political solution to the Syrian conflict, which has claimed over 1 million lives. Through the Astana process, Turkey facilitated discussions between the Assad regime and the opposition, aiming to prevent further conflict and achieve some positive outcomes.
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Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s commitment to preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and national unity. He underscored Turkey’s success in combating terrorist organizations like the PKK and Daesh along its southern borders and expressed a desire for a stable and democratic Syria. Erdogan stressed that Turkey has no territorial ambitions but is focused on defending its homeland against separatist threats. He pointed out that 670,000 people have returned to northern Syria, with another 1 million expected to return upon project completion.
Addressing recent violence and social media trends following a crime by a Syrian national in Kayseri, Erdogan vowed to handle the refugee issue rationally and conscientiously, based on Turkey’s realities. He emphasized that public order is paramount and assured that Turkey will protect both its sovereignty and innocent refugees within its borders.
