MHP leader Bahceli condemns DEM Party’s controversial statement on Gaza

Devlet Bahceli, leader of Türkiye’s Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), addressed recent controversies during a party group meeting, focusing on comments by DEM Party member Tulay Hatimogullari.

Hatimogullari had previously stated, “Everywhere will become Gaza,” a remark widely interpreted as a threat. Bahceli condemned the statement, calling it a provocative attempt to undermine Türkiye’s stability, and warned of severe consequences for anyone pursuing such ideas.

In addition, Bahceli criticized opposition parties, particularly the Republican People’s Party (CHP), accusing them of supporting harmful agendas and threatening national unity. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s firm stance against the PKK, Daesh and other terrorist groups, while strongly rejecting any normalization with the Assad regime in Syria.

Why it matters

Bahceli’s remarks underscore Türkiye’s steadfast approach to internal security and regional challenges. They highlight the MHP’s critical role in the governing Cumhur Alliance and its unwavering support for the government’s policies on national security, terrorism and foreign relations.

Details of Bahceli’s remarks

• DEM and the “Gaza” comment: During a speech in Diyarbakir, DEM Party member Hatimogullari stated that “Everywhere will become Gaza” unless peace is achieved. While she later claimed her comments were taken out of context, Bahceli dismissed this defense, insisting that Türkiye would not tolerate any rhetoric implying destabilization or destruction.
• PKK and terrorism: Bahceli reiterated Türkiye’s position on combating terrorism, emphasizing that groups like the PKK/YPG, and Daesh remain significant threats. He declared that Türkiye’s efforts to eradicate terrorism, both within its borders and across its regional periphery, would continue with determination.
• CHP criticism: Bahceli accused the CHP of aligning with actors detrimental to Türkiye’s interests. He described the party’s actions as undermining national security and criticized its associations with groups and individuals he views as hostile to Türkiye’s unity.

• Syria and Assad: The MHP leader rejected any reconciliation with Syria’s Assad regime, citing its role in regional instability. He highlighted Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Syria’s reconstruction, provided that terrorist groups like the PKK/YPG are excluded from any governance frameworks.

Zoom in

Bahceli’s statements reinforce the MHP’s narrative of safeguarding Türkiye’s sovereignty and unity. By linking opposition parties like the CHP and DEM to foreign agendas and terrorist influences, he seeks to solidify nationalist support for the party and the government’s broader policies.

Zoom out

Türkiye’s political environment remains highly polarized, with issues such as terrorism, national security, and foreign policy continuing to dominate both domestic discourse and international perceptions. The government’s ongoing fight against the PKK and Daesh, as well as its strategic stance on the Syrian conflict, reflects a broader effort to strengthen Türkiye’s position as a stable and sovereign actor in a volatile region.