Palestinian foreign minister: Sympathy not enough, practical measures needed against Israel

Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin said a noticeable shift is emerging in the positions of several countries, particularly in Europe, regarding the Israeli occupation and illegal settlements, but stressed that this change must be translated into "practical measures on the ground." In an interview with Anadolu, Shahin said there is "a growing trend toward Israel's international isolation and greater sympathy for Palestinians," but warned that expressions of sympathy alone are no longer sufficient.

Shift in European rhetoric

Shahin said there has been a "noticeable change" in the rhetoric of several countries, particularly in Europe, where governments have become "more explicit" in describing Israeli occupation, settlements and occupier violence. Spain has been "at the forefront in calling for concrete action," while Germany has also begun speaking "more openly about the occupation, settlements and attacks by Israeli settlers." The Netherlands and other countries are also adopting more advanced positions, she added.

Accountability needed

According to Shahin, the current moment requires a transition from expressions of solidarity to real accountability. "Israel does not respond unless there is a real price to pay," she said, warning that reliance on condemnation only "encourages further violations." The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over war crimes in Gaza, but neither has been arrested.

Annexation becoming reality

Shahin said annexation is not a future possibility but an ongoing reality. "Annexation never stopped. What we are seeing today is the gradual consolidation of this reality," she said. "The discussion of annexation is not new, but today we are seeing a faster effort to impose it on the ground."

Gaza catastrophe

On Gaza, Shahin described the humanitarian situation as "catastrophic." "Despite all the talk about agreements, the reality has not changed enough and aid is still not reaching Gaza in the required quantities. The health sector is on the verge of collapse, infrastructure has been devastated and civilians urgently need international intervention."

Türkiye's role

Shahin said Türkiye has been among the strongest supporters of the Palestinian cause, both politically and humanitarianly, with Ankara among the first capitals to send aid to Gaza. She thanked both the Turkish government and people for their continued solidarity.