Ankara: Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus has declared that the Palestinian cause is a national issue for Turkey, asserting that the country will defend it steadfastly. In his speech during a promotional event for a documentary about Al-Quds, held in Ankara, Kurtulmus highlighted the historical and cultural significance of Al-Quds, describing it as a key center of Islamic civilization and a “house of peace” during times of Muslim sovereignty.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Kurtulmus elaborated on the past significance of Palestinian territories as centers of learning, where principles of humanity and fairness were taught. He stressed that achieving a free Palestine with Al-Quds as its capital is a collective responsibility, integral to Turkey’s national identity. He also condemned the suffering inflicted upon Palestinians, particularly in Al-Quds, attributing it to Israel’s oppressive actions.

Kurtulmus commented on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, indicating that the strife did not begin on October 7, 2023, but is a continuation of historical events dating back to 1917 and exacerbated by subsequent geopolitical developments. He described the settlements in Palestinian regions as a “malignant tumor,” driven by concealed imperialist motives.

He emphasized that the Palestinian struggle is fundamentally a quest for justice and predicted the eventual establishment of a fully sovereign Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with Al-Quds as its rightful capital. Kurtulmus concluded by reiterating Turkey’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their cause, noting that some Western nations discreetly commend Turkey’s stance on the issue.