Ankara: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has called for Israel to cease its regional expansion activities, which he claims are carried out under the guise of establishing security. Fidan’s remarks came during a joint press conference with Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Bochorisvili in Ankara.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Fidan criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent statements on Syria, suggesting that they demonstrate a lack of support for peace. He urged Tel Aviv to stop its regional expansion, asserting that it poses a major obstacle to peace and stability in the region, particularly concerning events in Palestine.

The Turkish Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of striving for peace and justice amidst global conflicts, arguing that selective resolution of conflicts contradicts legal and human values. Fidan also expressed hope that Syria’s political transition process would be comprehensive, without permitting separatist movements.

Discussing Turkey’s role in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, Fidan stated that Turkey is a pivotal player in ensuring peace and maintaining a ceasefire in the region.

Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Bochorisvili, attending the same press conference, highlighted the meeting as an opportunity to strengthen relations between Turkey and Georgia. She thanked Turkey for its support of Georgia’s territorial integrity and underscored the importance of developing multilateral relations involving Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia. Bochorisvili also reiterated the significance of peaceful means to end the Russian-Ukrainian war.

Netanyahu had previously stated demands for the demilitarization of southern Damascus and indicated that the new Syrian army should not be allowed to deploy there, asserting that Israel would not tolerate any threats to the Druze community in southern Syria.