Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan emphasizes the need for international action to enforce ceasefire agreements in Gaza, including potential sanctions against Israel.
ANKARA – Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has urged the United States and other global actors to intensify efforts in compelling Israel to adhere strictly to the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
In a statement shared by his office on Friday, Erdogan emphasized that the international community, particularly the United States, must take firmer action to ensure Israel's full compliance with the ceasefire terms.
Erdogan, whose country has been one of the most outspoken critics of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, has announced Turkey’s increased involvement as a mediator in ceasefire negotiations.
This development follows Erdogan's recent meeting with U.S. President
Donald Trump at the White House.
Speaking to reporters during his return from a tour of Gulf region countries, Erdogan criticized Israel for violating the ceasefire, while affirming that Hamas has publicly pledged its commitment to upholding the truce.
He stated, "The international community, especially the United States, must take concrete measures to ensure that Israel honors its commitments" and suggested that this could include economic sanctions or halting military aid.
Ankara's commitment to playing a role in the task force overseeing ceasefire implementation has been reaffirmed by Erdogan, who also highlighted Turkey’s willingness to contribute to Gaza’s reconstruction efforts.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously expressed opposition to Turkish security forces' involvement in Gaza.
In response to Netanyahu's comments, Erdogan softened his stance on the matter, indicating ongoing discussions regarding Turkey's participation in a task force for Gaza.
He expressed readiness to provide support to the enclave through multifaceted negotiations that have yet to finalize specific modalities.
Erdogan further stressed the need for Gulf countries to contribute financially to rebuilding efforts in Gaza, noting that no single entity can undertake this massive task alone.
Relations between Turkey and Israel have deteriorated significantly during the recent Gaza conflict, with accusations of genocide being levied by Ankara against Netanyahu's government, a charge repeatedly denied by Israel.