Türkiye slams US Congress for applauding Netanyahu amid Gaza atrocity

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech in the US Congress, during which he received a standing ovation despite ongoing violence in Gaza, has provoked strong reactions from top Turkish officials. Speaker of the Turkish parliament Numan Kurtulmu and Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz expressed their dismay, condemning the applause for Netanyahu as a global disgrace.

Netanyahu, accused of leading actions that resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians in Gaza, was warmly received by US lawmakers, leading to swift criticism from Turkish officials.

Kurtulmus, voiced his condemnation: “The Congress that ‘applauded’ a mass murderer who should be tried in international courts, trampling all human achievements in the name of human rights, democracy, and justice, is engraved in the memory of humanity as accomplices to this massacre. Shame on you…”

We will continue to stand by Palestinians

Yilmaz also denounced the standing ovation, stating: “The disgraceful favor shown to a leader accused of committing genocide in Gaza before the International Court of Justice is concerning for the future of human values, international law, and democracy. In the face of perceptions created by lobbies and dominant media channels, the common sense of humanity and the power of truth are our greatest support. Alongside all virtuous individuals and governments of the world, we will continue to stand by the oppressed and occupied Palestinian people, and to advocate for justice and peace for all.”

Netanyahu’s acknowledgment of President Biden as a “proud Zionist” during his speech further fueled the criticism, with Turkish leaders highlighting the urgent need for justice and peace in the region.