Istanbul: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized that the Palestinian residents of Gaza cannot be expelled from their homeland, which he described as eternal and immortal. He stated that Palestine, including Gaza, the West Bank, and East Quds, rightfully belongs to the Palestinians.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Erdogan made these comments during a press conference at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul before departing on an Asian tour that includes stops in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan. He expressed satisfaction with the ongoing exchange of prisoners and detainees, noting Hamas’s commitment to its promises despite what he called Israel’s conspiracies.

Erdogan criticized the Israeli administration for considering what he described as malicious plans instead of working towards a permanent ceasefire. He also dismissed the new US administration’s proposals regarding Gaza, claiming they were made under pressure from the Zionist lobby and lacked significance from his perspective.

In addition to his comments on Gaza, Erdogan expressed confidence in Syria achieving stability under President Ahmed al-Sharaa. He praised al-Sharaa’s efforts against terrorist organizations and emphasized that there should be no armed groups outside the Syrian army to ensure stability.

Erdogan condemned the crimes of the Bashar al-Assad regime in Syria, particularly the massacres in Tadhamon neighborhood, Hama Governorate, and Eastern Ghouta. He highlighted the discovery of mass graves as evidence of the Assad regime’s brutality.

Lastly, Erdogan noted that his visits to Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan will involve signing numerous agreements to enhance bilateral relations with these “friendly and brotherly” countries.