Türkiye Dismisses Criticism of Its Palestine Policy, Stands Firm on Justice and Support for Gaza
Ankara has strongly refuted recent accusations challenging its approach to the Palestinian issue, calling them unfounded and politically charged efforts to misrepresent its position.
In a statement issued Sunday, Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry declared that the claims circulating about its Palestine policy are “completely false” and intended to “tarnish the country’s reputation” through misinformation and political manipulation.
“These efforts are part of a broader campaign to undermine Türkiye’s long-standing solidarity with the Palestinian people,” the statement said.
Unwavering Stance Against Gaza Genocide
The ministry reiterated that Türkiye has consistently followed an independent and justice-centered foreign policy regarding Palestine, and has been among the strongest critics of Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
“Türkiye has voiced the firmest opposition to Israel’s brutal offensive in Gaza, which amounts to genocide,” it said. “Israeli leaders’ ongoing hostility toward Türkiye only confirms the integrity of our stance.”
Concrete Measures Beyond Rhetoric
Contrary to recent disinformation, Türkiye has gone beyond symbolic gestures. In May 2024, it imposed a complete trade embargo on Israel, suspending all imports and exports.
“Every step was taken to ensure that this decision did not negatively impact our Palestinian brothers and sisters,” the ministry explained.
In addition, Türkiye has halted all military-related transactions with Israel and led an international initiative at the United Nations calling for a halt to global arms sales to Tel Aviv — a move backed by 52 countries.
Condemning Maritime Violations
The ministry also addressed the Israeli seizure of the Madleen ship in international waters, describing the act as illegal and affirming that Turkish authorities worked through all diplomatic channels to ensure the safe return of their nationals on board.
Support for Gaza’s Reconstruction and Legal Accountability
Türkiye firmly rejected all proposals involving the forced relocation of Gaza’s residents and reiterated its support for reconstruction efforts led by the Arab League and Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
Legally, Ankara is actively involved in the genocide case filed against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and has contributed to two additional advisory processes at the court.
The ministry also reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to seeking justice for Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a Turkish citizen killed by Israeli forces, and extended its support to Rumeysa Ozturk, who was released after being detained by U.S. immigration authorities.
Türkiye’s Message to the World
“We will not bow to pressure or defamation campaigns,” the ministry concluded. “Our unwavering pursuit of justice is anchored in the conscience of our nation and will persist in line with international law and human rights.”
