Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has affirmed that the genocide claiming more than 70,000 Palestinian lives in Gaza highlights significant damage to the values enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted by the United Nations 77 years ago.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, in a message issued on International Human Rights Day, Erdogan indicated that the extensive destruction in Gaza imposes a shared responsibility on the international community to aid its reconstruction and support its people. He emphasized that achieving a just and lasting peace in the Gaza Strip hinges on consolidating the ceasefire, which Turkey facilitated, and advancing the two-state solution towards immediate implementation.

In his message, the Turkish President condemned Israel's continued ceasefire violations, noting that since the agreement on October 11, at least 370 Palestinians have died due to Israeli attacks. Erdogan urged increased international pressure on Israel to prevent renewed conflict in the Gaza Strip.

Erdogan also mentioned Turkey's ongoing efforts to foster peace in Sudan, aiming to halt the bloodshed and restore peace and stability in the nation.

In a related context, Erdogan expressed concerns over the rise of hate speech, racism, and threats to global freedom of belief, which undermine the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. He emphasized the necessity to confront Islamophobia and hate speech resolutely.

He further stated, "Turkey will continue to defend human rights and dignity throughout the world, without discrimination based on language, race, or origin."

Additionally, Erdogan addressed Turkey's commitment to combating terrorism, which has claimed thousands of lives over the decades. He reiterated that achieving a "terror-free Turkey" remains a government priority, and Turkey will persist in supporting regional development, cooperation, and stability.

Erdogan concluded his message by congratulating the Turkish people and the world on Human Rights Day, hoping that the day would usher in peace, stability, and justice for Gaza, Palestine, Sudan, and beyond.