President Erdoğan: “Ready to Implement All Proposals to Make Netanyahu Feel the Cost of Occupying Palestine”
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced Turkey’s implementation of trade restrictions on Israel. He emphasized that Turkey is ready to demonstrate the cost of occupying Palestinian lands to Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Remarks at Riyadh Summit
At the joint summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Arab League in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Erdoğan condemned Israel’s operations in Gaza and occupied Palestinian territories. He shared that over 50,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have died in these attacks.
Erdoğan paid tribute to the deceased, including political leaders and peace-seekers from Hamas’ political wing. He added, “While escalating tensions with Iran, Netanyahu’s government continues attacks on Lebanon. Israel even blocks humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, stranding shipments in Egypt for months.”
Urgent Humanitarian Aid and Ceasefire
Erdoğan stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire and solutions to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. “Turkey has sent over 84,000 tons of aid to Gaza and stands ready to send more if obstacles are removed.” He condemned Israel’s recent ban on the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). He said this move undermines the two-state solution and prevents Palestinian refugees from returning home.
Erdoğan’s Call for Collective Action
Erdoğan continued, “Israel’s aim is to occupy Gaza, erase Palestinian presence in the West Bank, and eventually annex these lands. This agenda is advancing step-by-step, and we must prevent it.” He expressed disappointment over the limited response from Muslim countries, while Western nations heavily support Israel. Erdoğan urged international coordination to hold accountable those committing genocide in Palestine.
Leadership Role for Islamic Nations
Urging unity, Erdoğan said Islamic countries must not let differences hinder their shared cause. He stated, “We wish for Palestinian unity and fully support it. As Islamic countries, we should lead the steps against Israel. Enforcing an arms embargo and halting trade with Israel are crucial actions. Our initiative to stop arms sales has received support from 52 countries, including two permanent UN Security Council members.”
Turkey’s Commitment to Palestinian Rights
Erdoğan encouraged more countries to join South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. “Turkey has enacted trade restrictions on Israel and is ready to implement any measure to make Netanyahu feel the cost of occupying Palestine.”
A Vision for Recognized Palestinian Statehood
Erdoğan noted the UN General Assembly’s recent support for the International Court of Justice’s opinion on Palestine. He emphasized, “Following up on this decision is vital. Achieving a two-state solution with Israel’s consent seems impossible, so we must encourage wider recognition of Palestine.”
Erdoğan noted that nine more countries have recognized Palestine since October 7. He concluded, “I believe we will see Palestine as a UN member. Over 90 nations attended the Riyadh meeting, showing strong support for a two-state solution. I pray the OIC and Arab League will show the world a united voice on Palestine. I hope all nations fully commit to these actions. May the outcomes of this meeting bring blessings to Palestine and Lebanon, and my thanks to everyone who organized this event.”
President Erdoğan’s Departure from Saudi Arabia
Following the summit, President Erdoğan departed from Saudi Arabia. He traveled to Baku, Azerbaijan, aboard the presidential plane “CAN” to attend the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
