Erdogan warns that a return to a genocidal atmosphere in Gaza will have severe consequences.
Erdogan said, according to Turkey’s Anadolu Agency: “Yesterday, we received good news from Egypt that made all Muslims and people of conscience happy. An agreement has been reached in the negotiations between the Hamas movement and the Israeli government.”
He added: “For the first time in two years, a smile has appeared on the faces of the people of Gaza. People came to the streets, not out of fear but out of joy. We are happy that Gaza has returned to life after two years of suffering.”
Erdogan emphasized that the issue of stopping the bloodshed in Gaza was on the agenda of his visits to New York and Washington, and for this purpose, Turkish Intelligence Chief Ibrahim Kalin was sent to Doha and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan was sent to Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
He also said: “We held comprehensive talks with Hamas and brotherly countries in the region, especially Qatar and Egypt. In fact, we made every effort to establish peace, tranquility and security in Gaza.”
The Turkish president added: “Finally, an agreement has been reached and the path to permanent peace in Gaza has been opened.” Our only demand is peace, stability and tranquility in the region.
Erdogan also stressed that from now on, the focus will be on the strict implementation of the agreement and that Turkey is ready to send humanitarian aid to Gaza from its ships in the Egyptian port of El-Arish.
Regarding the possibility of Israel violating the agreement, he said: “We are well aware of Israel’s bad record of breaking its promises. Unfortunately, Israel has violated its agreements.”
Erdogan added: “We are taking the necessary measures to prevent the same approach [by Israel] from repeating itself. Gaza has left a ruin after two years of intense bombardment. God willing, we will fulfill our responsibilities in rebuilding Gaza.”
He stressed that the cost of returning to a genocidal situation in Gaza would be very heavy. “Our region, especially Gaza, has been drowned in blood, massacres and tears. Peace must be given a chance and destructive actions must be prevented.”
Erdogan concluded by noting that Turkey has always stood by the people of Gaza and will continue to support the Palestinians in all stages of the struggle and negotiations.