Turkish President Erdogan, Spain's premier discuss Gaza

WASHINGTON

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Monday discussed Israel’s over 40 days of attacks on Palestine and the Gaza Strip since Oct. 7.

In a phone call, Erdogan and Sanchez also exchanged views on steps to help ensure uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza, and efforts for a permanent cease-fire, according to Türkiye's Communications Directorate.

Erdogan praised as “valuable” the Spanish government's stance against Israel's "illegitimate attacks" on Palestinians and its statements in favor of the recognition of Palestine.

Erdogan told Sanchez that Türkiye is ready to assume all kinds of responsibilities, including as a guarantor, to ensure permanent peace in the region and to work together with Spain for regional peace.

Erdogan and other Turkish officials have blasted Western countries' general silence over the relentless Israeli attacks on Gaza, but has praised Spain for being critical of the Israeli offensive, which has taken the lives of 14,854 Palestinians, including 6,150 children and more than 4,000 women.

The official Israeli death toll since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas stands at 1,200.