Prisoner exchanges continue despite Israeli provocations: President Erdogan

Despite ongoing provocations from Israel, the exchange of prisoners and detainees between Israel and Hamas continues, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said following the cabinet meeting at Presidential Complex in Ankara.

Türkiye’s efforts to ensure ceasefire agreement

Speaking after a Cabinet meeting, Erdogan stated that Türkiye remains committed to securing a lasting ceasefire between the two sides.

He recalled his recent meeting with a Hamas delegation, during which he reaffirmed Türkiye’s willingness to “do whatever is necessary to make the ceasefire agreement permanent.”

He also underscored the humanitarian situation in Gaza, reiterating Türkiye’s call for increased support to Palestinians.

Contrasting conditions of released prisoners

Erdogan pointed out a stark contrast between the condition of prisoners released by Israel and those freed by Hamas.

“The vast difference between the condition of prisoners released by Israel and the captives set free by Hamas is enough to see the difference in mentality,” he said, referring to the physical state of those swapped under the ongoing prisoner exchange deal.

The Turkish president urged the international community to stand with the people of Gaza, emphasizing the need for sustained humanitarian aid.

“We must not leave our brothers and sisters in Gaza alone during this period. I once again repeat my call to provide more support to the oppressed people of Gaza ahead of the holy month of Ramadan,” he added.

Diplomatic engagements with African and Turkic nations

President Erdogan also highlighted Türkiye’s recent diplomatic efforts, including the visit of Rwandan President Paul Kagame last month, which marked the first official presidential-level visit from Rwanda to Türkiye.

He noted that four agreements were signed between the two countries to enhance bilateral cooperation.

Türkiye continues to strengthen its ties with African nations based on a “win-win approach and equal partnership,” he said, citing the Ethiopia-Somalia summit held in Türkiye as a key example of its diplomatic role in Africa.

Regarding the Balkans, Erdogan discussed his recent meeting with Denis Zvizdic, the speaker of the House of Representatives of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to regional stability.

He also noted engagements with Azerbaijani and Uzbek officials, reinforcing Türkiye’s efforts to boost cooperation among Turkic states.