Supporting Palestine a shared duty of all humanity: Erdogan

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday stressed that standing with Palestine is a shared moral and political obligation for all of humanity, especially Islamic nations. Speaking at a joint press conference with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the presidential complex in Ankara, Erdogan declared: "I want to once again emphasize that supporting Palestine is a shared responsibility of all humanity, particularly the Muslim world." He affirmed that Türkiye would remain unwavering in its defence of the Palestinian cause across every diplomatic and international forum, reiterating Ankara's firm commitment to justice for the Palestinian people.

Erdogan condemns Israeli 'genocide' and occupation tactics

The Turkish leader sharply criticised what he termed the "genocidal Netanyahu government" for its continued illegal actions in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, carried out "before the eyes of the entire world." He warned that the very existence of a sovereign Palestinian state is being systematically undermined, adding: "It is impossible to ignore this or remain indifferent to it." Citing UN figures, Erdogan noted that approximately 3,800 Palestinians have been displaced in 2026 alone due to settler violence, home demolitions and evictions, while nearly 100 Palestinians have lost their lives. He described this as a strategy of systematic occupation and attrition designed to cripple the Palestinian administration's ability to function on its own land.

Two-state solution and Gaza reconstruction

Erdogan reiterated Türkiye's steadfast advocacy for a two-state solution, pursued in close consultation with Palestinian counterparts. He called for the rapid creation of conditions necessary to launch reconstruction efforts in Gaza and ensure security within the enclave. Despite Palestinians' constructive stance, he noted, Israel's current government persists in its uncompromising and aggressive policies. The president particularly condemned provocations aimed at altering the status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque—the first qibla for Muslims—and other sacred sites, emphasising that such actions are unacceptable.

Commitment to Palestinian unity and statehood

Reaffirming Ankara's vision for a viable Palestinian state, Erdogan pledged to work resolutely for the establishment of an independent, geographically contiguous Palestine based on the 1967 borders, with occupied East Jerusalem as its capital. He welcomed the announcement of upcoming legislative and presidential elections in Palestine, expressing hope that they would strengthen reconciliation and national unity. Concluding his remarks, Erdogan thanked President Abbas and his delegation for their visit and extended his heartfelt greetings to the entire Palestinian people, underscoring Türkiye's enduring solidarity with their struggle for freedom and dignity.