CAIRO, Egypt: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday called for imposing an arms embargo on Israel, ending trade with the country, and isolating it internationally as a response to actions of aggression in the region.
Speaking at the D-8 summit in Cairo, Erdogan described these measures as crucial steps to hold Israel accountable for its actions in the region.
“We see Israel’s steps that disregard Syria’s territorial integrity, including the expansion of illegal settlements in the Golan Heights,” he said as quoted by Anadolu news agency.
“I believe the D-8 must respond more strongly to the lawlessness threatening Syria’s stability and our region.”
The Turkish president also called for a more coordinated response from Islamic countries, especially from members of the D-8.
“As Islamic countries, we must lead steps that can be taken against Israel,” Erdogan said.
“We must work harder together, as D-8 countries, for a just and lasting peace in the region,” he added.
Erdogan emphasized that such a united stance is vital for regional stability and for the pursuit of a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.
He pointed to the critical importance of collective action against Israel, saying: “We must encourage as many countries as possible, particularly D-8 members, to intervene in South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice.”
Gaza Ceasefire and Two-State Solution
Erdogan emphasized that achieving a permanent ceasefire in Gaza has become more important than ever in the short term.
“In this regard, we must all step up and take action. Our long-term goal should be to initiate a negotiation process to implement a two-state solution,” he added.
“We must strongly support the ongoing negotiations led by Qatar and Egypt to achieve a ceasefire and reach a result as soon as possible,” the Turkish president said.
“I hope that establishing a ceasefire in Lebanon and the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria will mark the beginning of a more positive era,” he added.
UN Chief Message
In his message at the summit, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, that in Syria, the United Nations is committed to supporting a smooth transition of power with an inclusive and credible political process, reflecting the country’s diversity.
He said, that in Lebanon, it is crucial for all parties to fully respect and swiftly implement the ceasefire agreement.
“Peace, hope and a better future for the people of the region and our world are fundamental.”
Iran Calls for Inclusive Govt in Syria
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also called for “the participation of all (Syrian) groups in the future government… as well as respect for different beliefs and religions.”
He added that “for more than 14 months, the Middle East region, in particular Gaza and southern Lebanon, and now… Syria, has been the target of massive attacks” by Israel, Arab News reported.
“It is our religious, legal and human duty to prevent further harm” to those suffering in the conflict zones, he said.
Pezeshkian expressed support for any agreement backed by all Palestinian factions.
“The right to self-determination of the Palestinian people must be respected,” said the Iranian president.
He called on the international community to pressure Israel to implement a ceasefire in Gaza, end attacks on Lebanon and Syria and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
