Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas convened in Ankara for high-level talks, reaffirming their commitment to the Palestinian cause and discussing new regional security frameworks. In a joint press conference at the presidential palace, both leaders stressed the urgent need for international engagement to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories.

Erdogan: 'A Shared Responsibility of All Humanity'

President Erdogan underlined that supporting Palestine is not merely a regional matter but a moral obligation for the entire international community. "I want to emphasize once again that supporting Palestine is a shared responsibility of all humanity, particularly the Muslim world," Erdogan told reporters alongside Abbas.

Erdogan praised Turkey's unwavering stance on the Palestinian issue. "As Türkiye, we will continue to firmly defend the Palestinian cause on every platform," he said, adding that Ankara's commitment remains integral to its foreign policy identity.

Turkish-Palestinian Relations and Regional Outlook

Turkey has long positioned itself as one of the most vocal advocates for Palestinian rights in the international arena. Under Erdogan's leadership, Ankara has consistently criticized Israeli policies in the occupied territories and called for a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders. The meeting with Abbas comes at a time when regional dynamics are shifting, with new alliances and defense pacts emerging across the Middle East.

Erdogan's Condemnation of Israel

During the press conference, Erdogan leveled strong criticism at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, describing it as a "genocidal government" that continues its illegal actions in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem "under the eyes of the whole world."

He warned that the very existence of a sovereign Palestinian state is being systematically undermined. "The existence of a sovereign Palestinian state is being eroded. It is impossible to ignore this or to remain indifferent to it," Erdogan stated.

Gaza Reconstruction and Security

Erdogan also called for the international community to create the necessary conditions for launching a reconstruction process in Gaza and ensuring safety within the enclave. "We are particularly and strongly opposed to provocations aimed at changing the status of Al-Aqsa Mosque, our first qibla, and other holy sites," he asserted.

Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in occupied East Jerusalem, holds profound religious significance for Muslims worldwide. Turkey has repeatedly warned against any attempts to alter the historical and legal status quo at the site, which has been a flashpoint for violence in recent years.

Abbas Welcomes Mecca Joint Defense Agreement

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, for his part, highlighted the importance of the recently concluded Mecca Joint Defense Agreement. He expressed hope that it would serve as a starting point for ensuring stability and security across the region.

"This agreement is very significant. I hope it will be a starting point for achieving stability and security in the region," Abbas said. He also expressed gratitude to Turkish leaders and the Turkish people. "I

Source: Anadolu News