Minister Çiftçi Strongly Responds to Israel's Katz's Remarks Targeting Turkey

Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi sharply responded in Ankara to Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz's remarks targeting Turkey and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Çiftçi stated they will not back down from their stance on Palestine and Gaza.

Scraper SystemJune 08, 2026, 03:26 PM

Minister Çiftçi Strongly Responds to Israel's Katz's Remarks Targeting Turkey

Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi delivered a strong response to Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz's arrogant remarks targeting Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and himself on social media. Speaking at the "Turkey Debate Competition Grand Final Program" organized by the Turkey Youth Foundation in Ankara, Minister Çiftçi replied to Katz's words by saying, "We will never compromise on our stance."

Minister Çiftçi said, "Turkey's voice is followed with hope especially in Palestine, Gaza, and every corner of our cultural geography." He added: "Because Turkey's voice resonates as a source of trust in the hearts of the oppressed, a prayer in sorrowful lands, and a call in humanity's conscience. This is why our stance, our words, and our sensitivity are very valuable.

There will be those disturbed by our sensitivity towards Palestine."

WE WILL NEVER COMPROMISE ON OUR STANCE

Minister Çiftçi stated, "Of course, there will be those disturbed by our connection to Jerusalem. There will also be those upset by our raising our voice against the genocide happening before humanity's eyes in Gaza. But we will never compromise on this stance."

WE WILL LISTEN TO GAZA'S CRIES

In his speech, Çiftçi said: "We will carry the cause of Jerusalem's freedom in our hearts. We will feel Palestine's pain in our conscience. We will listen to Gaza's cries. Standing by the oppressed and fighting for a just world order is the most fundamental responsibility of being human."

WE WILL NOT LET ANYONE QUESTION OUR SENSITIVITY

Minister Çiftçi added, "Our esteemed President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's leadership stance defending Palestine's rights, Gaza's oppressed, and Jerusalem's dignity on every platform will guide us. With the same faith, determination, and conscience, we will carry this sensitivity and will not let anyone question it."

WHAT HAPPENED?

Two days ago, Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi made significant remarks about Jerusalem during a speech at the AK Party Çorum Provincial Presidency Advisory Meeting held at the Çorum Chamber of Commerce and Industry conference hall. Minister Çiftçi said, "Just as we have witnessed the freedom of Damascus, Aleppo, and Karabakh, we hope to see Jerusalem's freedom one day. When I was a governor, I had a prayer to God.

As you know, after serving as governor here for five years, I was appointed to Erzurum, where I served for 2.5 years. My prayer was: 'My Lord, grant me the governorship of Jerusalem, even if just for one day.' I believe God will show us those days, He will definitely show us. I have believed this with all my heart and continue to believe." Çiftçi also said, "Just like in the past, those lands will be ours again.

They will come under our government's control again, God willing. Because we have a global leader like Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the helm. A very great leader." These statements by Minister Çiftçi infuriated the Israeli side.

Known for his anti-Turkey rhetoric, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz posted a scandalous message on social media, saying, "Jerusalem has been the capital of the Jewish people for 3,000 years and will remain the capital of Israel forever. Israel is a strong and determined state that has proven its capacity to defend itself against all threats."

Minister Çiftçi Strongly Responds to Israel's Katz's Remarks Targeting Turkey