The Israeli delegation walked out of a UN meeting during a speech by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who strongly criticized Israel's actions in Gaza. Erdogan called on countries that have not recognized Palestine to reconsider their stance and support the creation of a Palestinian state. His comments were met with applause from Palestinian representatives, who were present at the meeting.
Erdogan's speech was marked by strong rhetoric against Israel, which he accused of having a "genocidal mentality" that is never satisfied with killing. He described Gaza as "the largest cemetery for children in the world" and "the most inhumane and shameful concentration camp of our time." The Turkish president urged other countries to pressure Israel to end the war and allow the reconstruction of Gaza.
The Turkish government has long maintained that Israel's actions in Gaza constitute genocide, a claim that Israel rejects. Erdogan also expressed regret that Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas was unable to attend the meeting in person, due to the US denying him a visa to travel to New York. Abbas will instead address the Assembly via videoconference.
Erdogan defended the creation of an independent Palestinian state, with 1967 borders and Jerusalem as its capital, and warned that any attempt to "strangle" such a state would ultimately fail. He also lamented the injustice faced by Palestinians, saying it "hurts consciences." The Turkish president's comments reflect his country's increasingly strained relations with Israel since the start of the Gaza war.
The walkout by the Israeli delegation was captured on camera, with several members leaving their seats as Erdogan continued his speech. The incident highlights the deep divisions between Turkey and Israel over the Gaza conflict. Turkey has been a vocal critic of Israel's actions in Gaza, and Erdogan has made criticism of the Netanyahu government a central aspect of his foreign policy.
Erdogan's speech was a call to action for the international community to support the creation of a Palestinian state and to pressure Israel to end its actions in Gaza. He emphasized the need for countries to take a stand and support the Palestinian people, who he said are facing a grave humanitarian crisis. The Turkish president's comments were met with a mixed reaction from the Assembly.
The Gaza conflict has led to a significant deterioration in relations between Turkey and Israel, with Erdogan using his speech to reiterate his support for the Palestinian people. The incident at the UN meeting highlights the ongoing tensions between the two countries and the deep divisions over the Gaza conflict.
Key points
- Turkish President Erdogan criticizes Israel's actions in Gaza during a UN speech.
- Israeli delegation walks out of UN meeting in response to Erdogan's comments.
- Erdogan calls for creation of an independent Palestinian state with 1967 borders.
