President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared that Turkey will respond firmly to threats against its rights in the Eastern Mediterranean and those of the Turkish Cypriots. Erdoğan described Israel's actions in the region as a matter concerning Turkey's security.
In his speech at the AK Party group meeting in Ankara, Erdoğan stated that no provocation targeting Turkey's sovereignty and the rights of Turkish Cypriots will be tolerated. He emphasized a clear stance against pressure attempts directed at Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Addressing Syria and Lebanon, Erdoğan said the security of these countries cannot be considered separate from Turkey's security. He stressed that attacks and threats against Damascus and Beirut are unacceptable from Turkey's perspective.
Erdoğan also strongly criticized Israel's expansionist policies in the region. He reminded that Turkey continues to seek a diplomatic solution to the Palestinian issue and maintains its stance against escalating tensions in the area.
Referring to the crises in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, Erdoğan noted that the region has been worn down by successive conflicts. He argued that Israel's attacks affect not only the region but also a broader geographical area.
Erdoğan also addressed the rising tensions around Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean. He alleged that some countries and groups are acting alongside Israel to create new lines of tension in the region.
Reminding that Turkey is one of the guarantor states regarding Cyprus, Erdoğan affirmed that the Turkish side will not back down in protecting its rights. He reiterated the message that a strong response will be given to initiatives targeting the interests of Turkey and Turkish Cypriots in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Erdoğan also expressed that international reactions to the Israeli administration have been insufficient. He called on the world to act to prevent current developments from escalating into a greater disaster, stressing that humanity must learn from past major catastrophes.
