President Erdogan says Israel continues attacks, settlement activity despite ceasefires

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday accused Israel of persisting with “occupation, destruction, massacres, and illegal settlement activities” across Gaza, the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Lebanon, despite active ceasefires. In a message marking the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, Erdogan lamented that the negative effects of the Iran war—which he said was “triggered by Israel’s provocations”—are being felt across energy, agriculture, trade, transportation, economy, and security sectors worldwide.

Türkiye as stability anchor

“During a period when our region is struggling with crises, Türkiye stands out as an island of stability with its economy, able personnel, and strengthened internal front,” Erdogan said. He noted that Türkiye is now reaping the benefits of policies pursued over the past 23 years under the AK Party, particularly in the defense industry. “With defense and aerospace exports rising from 248 million to more than 10 billion, Türkiye is writing a rare success story in the world,” he added. Erdogan predicted that Türkiye will emerge as “one of the shining stars of the new era” once regional instability subsides.

Türkiye’s mediation role

Erdogan reiterated that Türkiye is doing whatever is necessary to promote peace, including offering mediation. Ankara has been actively involved in efforts to resolve the Iran-US conflict, despite Pakistan leading the formal mediation. Turkey has also hosted talks between Russia and Ukraine and has offered to mediate between Israel and Palestine. The president’s message underscores Turkey’s ambition to be a regional peace broker while criticizing Israeli actions that Ankara views as destabilizing.