ISTANBUL

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state, saying it will “definitely” be established based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

“Just as our Syrian brothers and sisters gained their freedom, a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital will definitely be established,” Erdogan said, speaking at the Justice and Development (AK) Party group meeting in the capital Ankara.

The president stressed that peace in the region cannot fall solely on the Palestinians or Hamas. “Peace is not a one-winged bird. Placing the entire burden of peace on Hamas and the Palestinians is neither fair, nor right, nor a realistic approach.”

He condemned the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza, calling for an immediate halt. “Israel continues its attacks that undermine the positive atmosphere despite Mr. Trump’s clear calls. If peace is truly desired, Israel's attacks must be stopped immediately,” he said.

'They have surpassed even Hitler'

“The Israeli government must understand that nothing can be achieved through bloodshed, massacres, banditry, or brutality,” the president added.

“For two full years now, they have surpassed even Hitler in committing genocide ...They used hunger as a weapon and let innocent children die of starvation. They turned Gaza into a massive pile of rubble, yet despite everything, they could not break the will to resist of the people of Gaza.”

Erdogan said Türkiye is pursuing a multi-faceted approach to the crisis, including “humanitarian aid, diplomatic engagement, trade measures, and recognition of the Palestinian state.”

“A ceasefire and a just peace are the most reasonable choices for all parties. The talks in (the Egyptian city of) Sharm El-Sheikh are of critical importance. We hope to receive good news,” he added.

“During this process, we will never, ever leave our Palestinian brothers alone.”

The Turkish president also praised the Palestinian group Hamas for engaging with peace efforts. “Hamas has responded very positively to (US) President (Donald) Trump’s peace plan, thereby clearly demonstrating its will for peace,” he said, adding that Türkiye supports the US peace initiatives in the region.

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