Erdogan vows ‘Israel’ will face justice over Gaza

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a strong address at a Justice and Development Party (AK Party) Consultation and Assessment Meeting in Sakarya, reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to seeking justice for what he described as ‘Israel’s’ genocide in Gaza.

Erdoğan said Turkey has responsibility toward oppressed peoples and vowed that those responsible for the violence would face accountability.

The Turkish leader referenced the case of five-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab, who was killed in 2024 while awaiting rescue, along with the deaths of numerous infants and children in attacks on civilian areas.

“A genocide took place in Gaza and they still attack,” Erdoğan stated, adding that his government’s cadre would ensure perpetrators are held to account.

Erdoğan’s remarks coincided with ‘Israel’s’ cabinet decision on the same day to approve recognition of the World War I killings of Armenians as “genocide”, a move widely viewed as a rebuke to Turkey

‘Israeli’ officials described the decision as non-retaliatory, though it highlighted longstanding tensions between the two nations.

The statement reflects Türkiye’s consistent position since October 2023.

Ankara has repeatedly accused ‘Israel’ of committing genocide, supported international legal actions including South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice, and welcomed ICC arrest warrants for ‘Israeli’ leaders.

‘Israeli’ Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that ‘Israel’ takes Erdoğan’s rhetoric “very seriously,” noting repeated calls perceived as threats to ‘Israel’s’ existence.

Netanyahu indicated that these remarks would be raised with the United States amid ongoing discussions on arms sales and NATO matters.