Erdogan says Israel obstructs efforts to end war

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday said Israel is actively weakening international efforts to bring an end to the ongoing Middle East war that began on Feb. 28, stressing that continued escalation is costing more civilian lives despite diplomatic attempts to secure a ceasefire.

Criticism over regional policies

Speaking after a Cabinet meeting in Ankara, Erdogan said the Israeli government is prolonging instability through its actions. He pointed to the continued closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque, legal moves targeting Palestinian prisoners, and rising tensions in neighboring countries such as Lebanon and Syria as signs of a broader strategy that fuels conflict.

Tensions and regional fragmentation

Erdogan argued that recent developments reveal a pattern of deepening divisions across the region. He warned against efforts to create fractures among communities, including Turks, Kurds, Arabs and Persians, emphasizing that such divisions could further destabilize the Middle East.

Türkiye’s security vision emphasized

Highlighting Türkiye’s domestic and regional priorities, Erdogan said the country’s “terror-free Türkiye” initiative is crucial at a time of heightened geopolitical risks. He stated that strengthening unity at home and promoting stability in surrounding regions are key to countering external pressures and ensuring long-term peace.

Call for unity amid ongoing conflict

The Turkish president reiterated that cooperation and dialogue remain essential to resolving the crisis, while warning that continued provocations will only deepen humanitarian and political challenges across the region.