Turkish Foreign Minister: "Israel has assassinated ceasefire chief negotiator Haniyeh treacherously"
Fidan emphasized that during the negotiation process, Palestine maintained a constructive stance, whereas Israel disrupted the talks. He stated, "Israel has assassinated the chief negotiator of the ceasefire talks (Ismail Haniyeh) in a treacherous manner."
The Turkish Foreign Minister criticized the unconditional support for Israel, highlighting the inconsistency in the international community's response to conflicts. "Those who deem the occupation in Ukraine as a crime turn a blind eye to the Israeli occupation," he remarked.
Türkiye's Legal Action Against Israel
Fidan announced that Turkey would submit a dossier to The Hague in August to intervene in the genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. He underscored Türkiye's commitment to seeking justice for the atrocities in Gaza and criticized the U.S. for mitigating Israel's actions.
Condemnation of Netanyahu
Reiterating his condemnation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Fidan said, "War criminals do not belong on parliamentary podiums but should sit in the defendant's chair." He recalled Netanyahu's applause in the U.S. Congress and reiterated that Israel's actions in Gaza and beyond reflect a pursuit of violence and expansionism.
Strengthening Turkish-Egyptian Relations
Fidan expressed Türkiye's dedication to strengthening bilateral relations with Egypt, particularly in times of regional turmoil. He mentioned ongoing efforts to expand the Türkiye-Egypt free trade agreement and resume Roro ferry services between Mersin and Alexandria.
Fidan also highlighted cooperation in the energy sector, considering Egypt a long-term reliable partner, and emphasized the importance of cultural and educational collaboration, including providing more scholarships for Egyptian students in Turkey.
Peace Efforts and Regional Stability
Fidan acknowledged Egypt and Qatar's mediation efforts in the ceasefire negotiations. He condemned Israel's assassination of Haniyeh in Iran, calling it a clear indication that Netanyahu seeks regional destabilization.
He stressed the importance of establishing a sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital for lasting peace in the Middle East. "The path to peace in the Middle East is through the establishment of a true Palestinian state," Fidan stated.
Humanitarian Aid and Diplomatic Efforts
Reflecting on his visit to El-Arish Port and Rafah Border Crossing, Fidan thanked Egypt for its crucial role in facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza. He noted that Türkiye has delivered over 56,000 tons of aid to Gaza, making it the largest contributor.
Regional Diplomacy
Fidan emphasized Turkey and Egypt's collaborative efforts in addressing regional conflicts, including the ongoing violence in Sudan, Somalia's territorial integrity, and Libya's political unification through elections.
Strategic Mediation
Responding to questions about a significant prisoner exchange operation managed by Turkey's National Intelligence Organization (MIT), Fidan highlighted Turkey's role as a trusted mediator between the U.S. and Russia.
In conclusion, Fidan urged all parties to heed Turkey's warnings and criticized Western double standards regarding democracy and human rights, particularly concerning Israel. "The West has lost all moral superiority in this region due to the Israeli issue," he asserted.
AA
