Ankara: The Turkish Ministry of Defense has issued a strong statement asserting that Israel’s recent escalation of attacks and continued violence, including actions against diplomats, signify how far the nation is from achieving peace.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Turkish Defense Ministry Spokesperson Zeki Aktrk addressed the media on Thursday, emphasizing the dangerous trajectory of Israel’s current military actions. Aktrk remarked, “At this stage when voices are rising against Israel and peace negotiations are continuing, Israel’s expansion and intensification of its attacks, its continued mass massacres, and its attacks, even on diplomats, are all indicators of how far it is from peace.” He stressed the urgent need for a ceasefire and urged the international community to take decisive actions against Israel, aligning with legal and humanitarian obligations.

The context of these statements includes an incident on Wednesday where the Israeli army reportedly opened fire during a diplomatic visit by 35 Arab and Western representatives to the Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank. This visit had been coordinated with the Israeli military. Additionally, Israel has been expanding its military operations in the Gaza Strip, declaring a “ground operation in the north and south of the Strip.”

On a related note concerning Syria, Aktrk mentioned ongoing efforts to stabilize the country. He noted that activities to detect and neutralize mines, explosive devices, and tunnels in operational areas in Syria continue without interruption. Furthermore, he highlighted the robust cooperation between Ankara and Damascus aimed at ensuring enduring security and bolstering Syria’s defense and security capacities.