Turkish Foreign Minister Calls for Urgent Cease-Fire and Aid in Gaza
The Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, has urged an immediate and unconditional cease-fire in Gaza to prevent further loss of civilian lives. Speaking at an emergency session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah, Fidan condemned the Israeli bombardment and blockade, describing them as gross violations of international law and human values.
Fidan expressed concerns over the escalating conflict, emphasizing that the situation in Gaza is becoming increasingly dire. He pointed out that Israel’s military response, coupled with the dehumanization of the Palestinian people, only serves to normalize their sufferings. Fidan also highlighted the continued provocations against the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the inhumane blockade of Gaza, despite previous warnings from Turkey.
The Turkish Foreign Minister highlighted the grave situation in Gaza, where over 2 million people are being subjected to collective punishment. He emphasized that depriving Gazans of basic necessities such as electricity, fuel, food, and water, as well as the shelling of homes, mosques, and hospitals, is unjustifiable and cruel.
Fidan called for urgent humanitarian aid to be sent to Gaza and stated that Turkey has already provided more than 80 tonnes of humanitarian assistance. He stressed the need for new methods and narratives to end the conflict, stating that the two-state solution is the only fair and lasting solution to the Palestinian question.
Fidan made a plea to the Muslim countries to challenge the hegemonic narrative imposed on them and act with self-confidence. He stressed the importance of wise and tactful decision-making to avoid catastrophic risks. Fidan also proposed a new guarantee mechanism for peace in the region, with Muslim countries ensuring the well-being of the Palestinian people.
The Turkish Foreign Minister urged the OIC member states to take all feasible diplomatic, legal, and coercive steps to put an end to Israel’s crimes against humanity. Fidan also highlighted the urgent need for a sovereign and independent state of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital.
In summary, Fidan’s plea for an unconditional cease-fire in Gaza and urgent humanitarian aid reflects Turkey’s commitment to resolving the conflict and bringing about a lasting peace. The Turkish Foreign Minister stressed the importance of challenging the current narrative and taking bold decisions to ensure the well-being of the Palestinian people. It is clear that Turkey is determined to play an active role in finding a solution and ending the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
