Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on world leaders to recognize Palestine as an independent state.
“I urge all nations that have not yet recognized Palestine to take a stand on the right side of history during this crucial period and swiftly acknowledge the Palestinian state,” Erdogan said during his address at the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday.
Erdogan stressed that the creation of a fully independent and sovereign Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital and maintaining its territorial integrity, must not be delayed any further.
He also expressed frustration with the United Nations’ inability to resolve global conflicts, arguing that the organization has grown ineffective over time.
“In recent years, the UN has failed to fulfill its core mission, gradually turning into a sluggish, inefficient, and inactive institution,” Erdogan said, emphasizing the urgent need for reform.
Addressing the situation in Gaza, Erdogan condemned Israel’s actions.
“Due to Israel’s attacks, Gaza has become the largest graveyard for children and women in the world,” he stated, highlighting the severe human cost for civilians.
Erdogan also criticized international media for their silence on the killing of journalists by Israeli forces.
“To the international media, I ask: Aren’t the journalists murdered on air and whose offices were raided by Israel your colleagues?”
He went on to accuse Israel of committing “open genocide” and occupying Palestinian land.
“The Israeli government, in blatant violation of basic human rights, is conducting a slow genocide against a people while occupying their land step by step. Palestinians are exercising their legitimate right to resist this occupation,” Erdogan added.
