President Erdogan warns of attempts to ‘provoke new sectarian strife’

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned on Wednesday of attempts to ignite a new sectarian conflict, saying that efforts were underway to create division in the region.

Speaking at the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) parliamentary group meeting, Erdogan highlighted what he described as a dangerous scheme targeting the unity of the Turkish nation.

‘A sinister trap against our brotherhood’

Erdogan expressed concerns about rising tensions in Syria and the broader region, stating, “A new sectarian strife is being provoked.”

He pointed to historical attempts to divide Türkiye along ethnic and ideological lines, warning that similar strategies were being used today.

“For years, they tried to divide us as Turks and Kurds, secular and conservative, progressive and reactionary, Alawite and Sunni. Now, they are pursuing new scenarios,” Erdogan said, emphasizing that Türkiye remains vigilant against such threats.

The president claimed that remnants of the former Syrian regime were involved in terrorist activities that were being used to set a “sinister and dirty trap” against Türkiye’s social harmony.

Türkiye’s commitment to regional stability

Erdogan reiterated Ankara’s commitment to fostering peace and stability, not only within its borders but also across the wider region.

“We are working tirelessly to be a force for good, a beacon of justice, and a protector of peace,” he said, referencing Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts.

Highlighting Ankara’s regional role, he noted the country’s humanitarian support for crisis-hit areas such as Sudan, Libya, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Gaza.

He also criticized what he called “provocative and divisive rhetoric” from political groups, urging unity in the face of external pressures.

‘We will not allow new conflicts to be created’

The Turkish president warned against attempts to incite social unrest through misinformation and divisive narratives.

“Some circles are trying to create new crises and areas of conflict in Türkiye.

They aim to drive a wedge between our people and incite new chaos,” Erdogan stated.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting Türkiye’s national unity, adding, “Whoever attempts to harm the brotherhood of this nation will find us, the state, and 85 million citizens standing in their way.”

Referring to past instances of sectarian violence in Türkiye, Erdogan stated, “We have seen this dirty scenario before—in Maras, Corum, Sivas, and Gazi Neighbourhood. Let me say this once again: You will not succeed. You will not disrupt our brotherhood.”