In a speech delivered on Wednesday, Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan voiced a controversial stance, categorizing Hamas as a group for liberation and mujahideen fighting to safeguard their land and citizens. Erdogan's comments came during a speech at the Turkish parliament, where he also announced the cancellation of his planned trip to Israel.
In his address, Erdogan criticized Western nations for designating Hamas as a terrorist organization, contrasting this perspective with the view that Hamas represents a struggle for liberation. He stated, "The West got together and sees Hamas as a terror organization. Israel, you may act like an organization because the West owes you a lot. But Turkey doesn't owe you".
Erdogan expressed a nuanced view regarding Turkey's position on Israel, highlighting that Turkey has no inherent issue with the state of Israel. However, he added that the country has never approved of the actions taken by Israel in certain instances.
The Turkish president also drew attention to the high number of civilian casualties, particularly children, resulting from the conflict. He emphasized the need to avoid harming innocent people, even in response to actions that are not condoned.
Since the brutal attacks on October 7, there has been a significant escalation in the Israel-Palestinian conflict. The Israeli military has conducted relentless airstrikes and enforced a complete blockade on the Palestinian enclave. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza, these actions have led to the tragic loss of at least 5,087 lives, including 2,055 children.
Erdogan also used his platform to address perceived censorship and silencing of individuals who support the Palestinian cause in the West. He underscored Turkey's commitment to welcoming university students and others who take a principled stance in solidarity with Palestinians.
The Turkish President's comments highlighted the complex and contentious nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the diverse international perspectives that shape it.
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