Erdogan praises Italy’s stance against Israel, seeks UN support for arms ban

In a phone call on Tuesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan commended Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for Rome’s stance against Israel’s actions in the region. He emphasized Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to peace in the Middle East.

Erdogan highlighted that Italy’s support would bolster Ankara’s efforts at the U.N. to halt arms sales to Israel.

According to Türkiye’s Communications Directorate, Erdogan stressed the necessity of a united international response to counter Israeli aggression, stating, “Italy’s backing for Türkiye’s initiative at the U.N. is crucial to this effort.”

The leaders also addressed the strengthening of bilateral relations and various global and regional issues. Erdogan noted that Türkiye-Italy relations are improving daily and expressed optimism about enhancing bilateral trade, particularly in the defense sector.

Condemning Israel’s attacks on Palestinian territories, including Gaza, as well as assaults on Lebanon and U.N. peacekeepers, Erdogan stated that Israel has disregarded all warnings, perpetuating violence in the Middle East.

“President Erdogan thanked Italian Prime Minister Meloni for her approach that supports the concept of family, which emphasizes family values in the face of LGBT advocates,” the statement added.