Türkiye maintains Gaza aid despite Israeli obstructions, Erdogan says

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated Monday that Türkiye persists in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza despite encountering "various disruptions caused by Israel" during these efforts. Speaking after a Cabinet meeting in Ankara, the Turkish leader warned that regional security remains compromised as long as the Palestinian occupation continues, asserting that no regional country can achieve true security while Palestinians "continue to bleed and lose their lands."

Ongoing Humanitarian Aid Operations

The Turkish Red Crescent's 18th "Goodness Ship," carrying approximately 800 tons of humanitarian supplies including winter blankets, staple foods, and other essential items, recently arrived at Egypt's al-Arish port for subsequent transfer to Gaza. Beyond this maritime delivery, the organization maintains substantial ongoing operations within the territory, providing daily hot meals to 35,000 people and offering support to hospitals and health operations managed by the Palestinian Red Crescent.

Regional Context and Ceasefire Violations

Erdogan's comments come amid a fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel that has been in effect since October 10, though the Turkish president accused Israel of daily violations resulting in hundreds of Palestinian casualties. The broader conflict, ongoing since October 2023, has resulted in over 69,000 fatalities according to the report, predominantly women and children, with more than 170,000 injured and widespread destruction rendering the enclave largely uninhabitable.

Broader Foreign Policy Objectives

The Turkish president also outlined Türkiye's broader regional objectives, emphasizing the nation's commitment to promoting "peace, justice, stability, and shared prosperity" along its southern borders, spanning from Iraq to Syria. This statement reinforces Ankara's active diplomatic role in Middle Eastern affairs and its consistent support for Palestinian causes amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.