Türkiye urges US to reconsider unconditional Israel support under Trump

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called on the United States to reassess its position on the Israel-Gaza conflict, suggesting the Trump administration could help establish lasting peace in the region.

Speaking to reporters Sunday after the fourth Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Fidan emphasized that U.S. support has enabled what he characterized as an ongoing “genocide” in Gaza.

“So far, the continuation of the current genocide has been made possible through U.S. support, particularly due to the policies initiated during (former U.S. President Joe) Biden’s term,” Fidan said. “(U.S. President Donald) Trump, during his time in office, contributed to the establishment of a ceasefire through his efforts.”

The foreign minister expressed hope that the new U.S. administration would take steps toward peace. “Our expectation now is that while he is in the presidential office, steps will also be taken toward achieving lasting peace.”

Fidan highlighted the international community’s widespread opposition to Israel’s actions, noting that 156 countries voted against Israel in a recent United Nations vote. Despite this consensus, he pointed to what he called a “legitimacy crisis” in the global system.

“The main issue is the inability to stop a problem on which almost the entire world agrees,” Fidan said. “This is precisely where the legitimacy crisis and the systemic crisis facing the world become evident.”

Fidan rallies Islamic countries to redirect diplomatic efforts

Foreign Minister Fidan suggested that Islamic countries should redirect their diplomatic efforts.

“The genocide openly supported by the EU and the U.S. can only be influenced to a certain extent by the joint stance put forward by Islamic countries,” he said. “From this point forward, I believe it may be more appropriate for Islamic countries to focus their diplomatic efforts not on Israel, but on the U.S.”

Türkiye has taken numerous actions within its influence, according to Fidan, including recalling its ambassador and cutting trade relations with Israel. The country has also engaged in multilateral efforts through organizations such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Developing-8, and European Union platforms.

US-Türkiye in process of clarifying certain Syria policies

Addressing relations with the United States, Fidan described ongoing discussions with the Trump administration regarding security in Syria amid regional threats posed by Israel.

“During this period, we have conducted the necessary discussions in the process of clarifying certain policy preferences regarding Syria. We continue to do so,” Fidan noted.

He emphasized Türkiye’s clear stance on several issues, including the fight against terrorism, preserving Syria’s territorial integrity, combating Daesh, ending what he called “PKK occupation,” and disarmament. Fidan also mentioned efforts to address “how to manage the presence of American forces in the region during the term of the new administration.”

Türkiye vigilant regarding Greek Cypriot military ties with West

The foreign minister expressed vigilance regarding ties between the Greek Cypriot administration and Israel, as well as military agreements between Greek Cypriots and Western countries.

“Some of it may fall within the category of normal relations between nation-states. However, part of it also reflects an effort to form a certain security, political, and economic front against Türkiye,” Fidan said. “We are following these developments very closely. We issue necessary warnings and take appropriate initiatives when needed regarding this matter.”

Fidan also mentioned that Türkiye is nearing the finalization of a joint mechanism with regional countries to combat Daesh, with delegations having met in Ankara last week to discuss implementation details.