ANKARA

"While powerful men debate the language of diplomacy, children are dying, we need action and a cease-fire (in Gaza), not just words," said Scottish First Minister Hamza Yusuf's wife, Nadia El-Nakla, on Wednesday.

Emine Erdogan hosted the summit "United for Peace in Palestine" with other first spouses from around the world in the Turkish metropolis of Istanbul as part of Ankara's efforts to end the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza.

Speaking at the summit, El-Nakla thanked Emine Erdogan and said: "The sole reason for our gathering here today is for humanity to prevail and to prevent more innocent men, women, and children from dying."

Describing her parents as Palestinian, El-Nakla stated, "My family and I, along with 2.2 million people living in Gaza, have been under blockade for 17 years; food, water, electricity, fuel – all controlled and restricted by foreign powers."

As the Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip entered its 40th day, at least 11,320 Palestinians have been killed, including over 7,800 women and children, and more than 29,200 others have been injured, according to the latest figures from Palestinian authorities.

Thousands of buildings, including hospitals, mosques, and churches, have also been damaged or destroyed in Israel's relentless air and ground attacks on the besieged enclave since last month.

*Writing by Alperen Aktas