Erdogan slams Israel’s ‘inhumane’ Gaza attacks, eyes Syria rapprochement

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan criticized Israel’s actions in the region on Sunday, urging it to halt what he described as “inhumane” attacks on Gaza.

“Israel should cease these massacres and put an end to these inhumane attacks,” President Erdogan told journalists during his return flight from Germany on Sunday.

“Israel has persistently pursued attacks and continued massacres. It is Israel that disregards human rights and international law,” he added.

Erdogan also voiced concerns about Israel’s regional ambitions, stating, “Israeli leaders threaten Lebanon to alleviate their pressures. Israel must abandon its intent to escalate conflicts in the region.”

Potential improvement with Syria

Shifting to Türkiye’s relationship with Syria, Erdogan hinted at a potential improvement.

“The moment Bashar Assad takes a step towards improving relations with Türkiye, we will reciprocate that approach,” he said, emphasizing a readiness to mend ties.

We will extend an invitation to Assad. We aim to restore Türkiye-Syria relations to their former level.

President Erdogan

‘Iran important neighbor’

Regarding relations with Iran, Erdogan highlighted the significance of historical and cultural ties between the two nations.

“Iran is an important neighbor with whom we share historical and cultural bonds. I anticipate positive developments in Türkiye-Iran relations in the coming period,” he stated.

Ally UK

Erdogan also underscored Türkiye’s strategic partnership with the U.K., pledging to strengthen it further.

“We will continue to enhance relations with our ally, the U.K., across all domains in the upcoming period,” he affirmed.