Erdogan accused Israel of derailing peace initiatives in the Middle East
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that it was Israel’s actions that caused the breakdown of peace initiatives in the Middle East. According to him, the consequences of the war are being felt not only by Iran and the Gulf states, but also by countries not directly involved in the conflict.
The Turkish president stated that the war in the region began due to Israel’s actions and provocations, and its consequences extend far beyond the immediate combat zone.
“It is not only the people of Iran and the brotherly countries of the Persian Gulf who are paying the price for the war that began due to Israel’s actions and provocations, but everyone—regardless of whether they are involved in it or not,” Erdogan said.
According to him, Israel is also responsible for the fact that the so-called Islamabad Agreements were not implemented.
Erdogan believes that these agreements once provided an opportunity for the region to “breathe a sigh of relief,” but the peace initiative ultimately failed to materialize.
Separately, the Turkish president commented on the situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.
He said that the unresolved situation in the region will continue to put pressure on global oil prices.
Erdogan noted that Turkey, like other countries, is already feeling the economic consequences of the regional crisis, particularly due to rising energy costs.
Despite the escalating geopolitical risks, Erdogan assured that Turkey is not abandoning its course toward economic growth and development.
According to him, due to the new circumstances, Ankara is forced to adjust certain plans and economic targets, but the country’s overall development course remains unchanged.
Thus, Turkey is simultaneously criticizing Israel’s actions, warning of the conflict’s continued impact on the global oil market, and preparing to adapt its economic policy to the new conditions.
Erdogan made this statement following a meeting of the Turkish government.
In a joint statement, China and Egypt welcomed regional and international efforts to reduce tensions and promote dialogue in the Middle East. The document was released during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Egypt.
The Pentagon plans to maintain the U.S. military presence in the Middle East as President Donald Trump’s administration prepares for a possible protracted conflict with Iran. The standoff is expected to last at least until 2027.