Newsletters
At the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made a strong call for unity among Muslims in response to the ongoing Israeli aggression and humanitarian crisis. His message comes amid heightened tensions following Israel’s June 13 aggression against Iran, which has further escalated the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
He stressed the urgency of putting aside differences: “In these difficult days, Muslims must put aside their differences and unite, seeing it not just as a need but as an obligation.”
Erdogan emphasized the responsibility of Muslims to act together without delay, warning that remaining silent in the face of injustice means being complicit: “Those who remain silent against all the oppression are accomplices to the crimes being committed. We must strengthen our solidarity by setting aside the seeds of discord sown among us and the differences of opinion.”
Highlighting the biggest shortcoming of the Islamic world, Erdogan said: “The greatest deficiency in the Islamic world is the lack of unity. Despite our abundant human resources, economic capacity, underground and surface resources, and strong defense industry, if we are not where we deserve, the reason is clear: like salt and water can’t make dough without yeast, our biggest lack is unity and solidarity.”
He called on Muslims to rise above division and enmity: “We will not be divided, we will not turn against each other, and we will not build walls between us. We will love our brothers sincerely for the sake of Allah and be companions to each other.”
Erdogan also reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment by saying, “Türkiye stands ready to support every sincere step toward peace and unity.”
Reacting to an Israeli minister’s complaint about damage to hospitals in Iran, Erdogan said Israel’s claims were hypocritical. "Israel complains about hospitals being targeted, while Israel struck over 700 hospitals, bombed 35 hospitals, killed nearly 1,000 health care workers, and destroyed 94% of Gaza’s health infrastructure," Erdogan said. "For them to talk about the laws of war is shameless and brazen."
Erdogan highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where people face hunger and violence amid ongoing conflict. He noted that 35 hospitals have been hit and nearly a thousand health workers killed.
Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye’s unwavering support for Palestine. "Today, we say Free Palestine," he declared, mourning the more than 55,000 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks. He also urged all parties to step back from escalation to avoid a disaster that could impact Europe and Asia for years amid the Israel-Iran conflict.
"Türkiye is ready to support every sincere step taken in this direction," Erdogan added, calling for an immediate halt to the violence and a peaceful resolution.
1 min read
1 min read
