Israel attempting to erase Palestine from world's agenda: Erdoğan

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reaffirmed Turkey’s unwavering support for an independent Palestinian state during a joint press conference with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ankara on August 12. Erdoğan emphasized that the state should be established on the 1967 borders, including East Jerusalem as its capital, and stressed the need for immediate action to rebuild the Gaza Strip. The meeting followed discussions on regional developments and the ongoing challenges faced by the Palestinian territories. During the press conference, Erdoğan cited United Nations data indicating that approximately 3,800 Palestinians had been displaced in the occupied West Bank in 2026 due to settler violence, demolitions, and evictions. He criticized Israeli actions in the West Bank and Jerusalem for undermining the prospects of Palestinian statehood. Erdoğan accused the Israeli government of maintaining an uncompromising stance toward Gaza, despite what he characterized as a constructive Palestinian position. He urged the creation of conditions necessary for the start of reconstruction and security in Gaza without further delay. Erdoğan also addressed developments at Al-Aqsa Mosque and in Hebron, stating that Turkey strongly opposes any attempts to alter the status quo at these holy sites. He expressed support for planned Palestinian presidential and legislative elections, believing they could promote reconciliation and strengthen Palestinian unity. The two leaders discussed broader issues affecting the occupied territories, including the impact of Israeli policies on the lives of Palestinians. In addition to his remarks on the Palestinian cause, Erdoğan condemned the Israeli government for seeking to erase Palestine from the global agenda by fostering instability and new conflicts. He described the Netanyahu government as one that aims to benefit from chaos and conflict, asserting that such efforts would ultimately fail. Erdoğan referred to the Israeli government as a "genocidal" regime engaged in unlawful policies that have drawn attention from the international community. He noted that the situation in the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem continues to worsen, with over 100 Palestinians killed in the same period. Despite the challenges, Erdoğan maintained that the Palestinian people remain steadfast in their struggle. He framed the support for Palestine as a shared responsibility of humanity, especially within the Muslim world. The two leaders also reaffirmed their solidarity against attacks, violations, and provocations at Al-Aqsa Mosque, Hebron, and other locations in the Palestinian territories. They condemned any actions intended to change the status quo at these sites, which Erdoğan described as vital to the identity of Muslims. Turning to Gaza, Erdoğan highlighted the Israeli administration’s refusal to engage constructively, calling it a government that has made deadlock its policy despite numerous agreements and international efforts. He argued that the current situation demonstrates which side favors continued conflict and which seeks peace, noting that the people of Gaza have clearly expressed their desire for peace. Erdoğan called for urgent measures to ensure security and initiate the reconstruction process in Gaza. Abbas, in turn, commended Turkey’s support for Palestinian rights and mentioned the potential significance of the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement in promoting regional stability and security. He expressed hope that the agreement could serve as a foundation for improved conditions for both Palestinians and neighboring countries. The discussion underscored the complex interplay of political, humanitarian, and security concerns shaping the Middle East landscape.