Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that the repercussions of Israel's ongoing aggression are being felt throughout the entire region, not just in Palestine and Lebanon. In a televised address following a cabinet meeting at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, Erdogan stated, "The price of (Israeli) aggression is not being paid by our Palestinian brothers and sisters, nor by the brotherly Lebanese people alone, but by the entire region with all its diverse religious components."
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Erdogan stressed that Israel continues to encroach on Palestinian territories, ignoring fundamental human rights and breaching international law. He highlighted the region's current challenges, noting the instability caused by the actions of the Israeli government. Erdogan remarked, "The current Israeli government, which has become reliant on war, continues to push the region toward instability through its provocations and schemes."
In addition to his comments on regional conflicts, Erdogan announced upcoming legislative moves aimed at disarming the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). He revealed plans to submit a draft law to parliament soon, aiming to eliminate terrorism and alleviate the economic burden it imposes on Turkey. Erdogan commented, "When this process is completed, our country will be relieved of a heavy economic burden, and this will benefit all 86 million of its citizens." He detailed the financial losses due to terrorism, which surpass $50 billion annually, with lost tax revenue nearing $123 billion.
On another front, Erdogan addressed Turkey's stance on Cyprus, affirming vigilance over any new military arrangements affecting the island. He stated that initiatives ignoring the rights of Turkish Cypriots cannot succeed, assuring continued support for their sovereignty and interests. Erdogan also outlined projects to support Turkish Cypriots, including a natural gas pipeline across the seabed.
In light of global challenges, Erdogan discussed Turkey's resilience and strategic goals. He emphasized efforts to transform Turkey into a regional hub for production, logistics, transit trade, and technology, despite regional conflicts. "We are taking decisive steps to transform Turkey into a regional hub for production, logistics, transit trade, and technology," Erdogan stated, highlighting the country's economic resilience and commitment to minimizing war-related costs.