“Israel is the Biggest Obstacle to Peace,” Says Turkish President Erdogan

Istanbul: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed a clear stance on the issues facing the Muslim world, Israeli aggression, and regional peace and stability during his speech at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Istanbul. Erdogan emphasized the importance of decisions that would benefit the Muslim Ummah, as he condemned Israeli atrocities and called for greater unity among Muslim nations.
In his speech, President Erdogan remarked, “The suffering of the people of Gaza is our own suffering, and we cannot remain silent onlookers.” He strongly condemned the Israeli occupation, highlighting that Israel, backed by global powers, has been engaging in aggression for the past two years. He also pointed out that millions of Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks, and Gaza is currently facing widespread hunger and poverty.
Erdogan warned that peace could never be established in the region as long as Israel remains in place, asserting, “The Israeli government has proven to be the biggest obstacle to peace, and anyone seeking a diplomatic solution must first face the Israeli blockade.” He also denounced Israel’s recent attacks on Iran as a blatant insult to diplomacy, particularly at a time when negotiations between the U.S. and Iran over the nuclear deal were ongoing.
Drawing a historical parallel, Erdogan stated, “Just as the fire set by Hitler wreaked havoc around the world, Israel is now following the same path, creating mischief globally without restraint.”
Expressing full solidarity with Iran, Erdogan assured that Turkey would stand side by side with the Islamic Republic during this difficult period. He also voiced opposition to Israeli actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Yemen.
“The Israeli policy of covering one mistake with another is condemned, and our region cannot afford any more wars,” he said. Erdogan called on the international community not to remain silent in the face of Israel’s actions, reaffirming Turkey’s commitment to speaking out against Israeli aggression after June 14.
Regarding the Gaza issue, Erdogan emphasized that a permanent and just solution should be found in accordance with the United Nations Charter and international law. He urged the Muslim Ummah to put aside differences and unite in these challenging times. “One religion, one belief, and one goal can unite us all to find solutions to our problems,” he stated.
He also reiterated Turkey’s firm stance against Islamophobia and vowed to continue opposing all forms of Islamophobia during his presidency.
In closing, President Erdogan welcomed the prospects of peace in Syria, stating that Turkey wishes for the Syrian people to stand on their own feet and expressed complete solidarity with them at this stage.