Erdogan Escalates Support for Iran Amid Ongoing Conflict with Israel
In a bold display of solidarity, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has extended more than mere words of support to Iran in the wake of the five-day conflict initiated by Israel. Erdogan firmly backs Iran's right to self-defense against what he describes as banditry and terrorism perpetrated by Israel, asserting that Prime Minister Netanyahu's actions have surpassed even the historical atrocities committed by Hitler regarding genocide.
"It is totally natural, legitimate, and legal for Iran to defend itself against the banditry and state terrorism of Israel," Erdogan stated, emphasizing Turkey's commitment to halting the inhumane aggression against not only Iran but also Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. This stance marks a departure from Turkey's typically neutral role as a mediator in other global conflicts, such as the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
According to reports from the Iranian government, the conflict has already seen significant casualties, with 224 reported deaths on Iranian soil attributed to Israeli attacks targeting both military and civilian installations. In retaliation, Iran's military actions have resulted in at least 24 fatalities within Israel, as per the Turkish national agency, Anatolia.
Erdogan expressed these sentiments during a gathering with the parliamentary group of his ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). He highlighted the collective responsibility of not only those directly involved in the violence but also those who remain silent in the face of such brutality. "The blood of massacred civilians, babies, and murdered children is not only on the hands and faces of those who support Israel's arrogance but also on those who choose to remain silent," he articulated.
While refraining from direct military involvement, Erdogan assured that Turkish authorities are vigilantly monitoring the escalating violence and its potential implications for Turkey. "All our institutions are on alert regarding the potential effects of these attacks on our nation," he said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to securing Turkey's interests.
Erdogan lamented the silence of the international community, calling out the United Nations and other global organizations for their inaction. He urged that stopping Israeli aggression is essential not just for regional peace but for the broader humanity. "All countries in the region, including our neighbor Iran, must learn the necessary lessons from these events," he remarked, affirming that Turkey will continue its diplomatic efforts to prevent a wider conflict that could have disastrous consequences for the region.
As tensions simmer and the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, bracing for the implications of Erdogan's strong stance and the continued hostilities in the region.
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