Türkiye condemns Israeli West Bank moves, warns two-state solution at risk

Türkiye has issued a strong condemnation of Israel's recent actions in the occupied Palestinian territories, warning that measures aimed at reshaping the legal and civil framework in the West Bank threaten to extinguish remaining prospects for a two-state solution. Defense Ministry spokesperson Zeki Akturk told Thursday's weekly press briefing that Ankara views the Israeli cabinet decisions as a clear breach of international law.

Ceasefire Violations and Annexation Concerns

Akturk criticized Israel for continuing to violate the Gaza ceasefire agreement even as the parties enter the second phase of the peace plan. He specifically condemned Sunday's Security Cabinet approval of steps designed to entrench Israeli control over the West Bank—moves regional and international leaders have described as de facto annexation of occupied Palestinian territory. "Such measures constitute a clear violation of international law and risk damaging ongoing efforts toward a negotiated settlement," Akturk stated.

Unwavering Support for Palestinian Statehood

The spokesperson reiterated Türkiye's longstanding position: "We will continue to support the Palestinian people's efforts to establish an independent and sovereign state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital." The remarks come amid intensified Israeli military operations and settlement expansion across the West Bank since the Gaza war began in October 2023.

Monitoring Syria Agreement

Responding to a separate question, Akturk confirmed that Türkiye is closely observing implementation of the Jan. 30 agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces. "We continue to closely follow on the ground the implementation of the agreement," he said.