Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday expressed support for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recent statement signaling that the United Kingdom will recognize Palestinian statehood in September, provided no progress is made toward a ceasefire in Gaza.
The call came after Starmer announced on July 29 that the UK intends to recognize Palestine ahead of the United Nations General Assembly, unless Israel takes tangible steps to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and commit to a ceasefire.
According to a statement from Türkiye’s Communications Directorate, the two leaders held a phone conversation during which they discussed bilateral relations and broader regional issues.
President Erdogan stated that the humanitarian conditions in Gaza have reached a critical threshold, stressing that global actors must move beyond expressions of concern. He underlined the necessity of compelling Israel to accept a ceasefire and to engage in efforts toward a two-state solution—a diplomatic framework that envisions an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel.
Türkiye, which maintains diplomatic ties with both Israel and Palestine, has been actively involved in ceasefire mediation efforts. The country continues to send humanitarian aid to Gaza and supports the work of third-party mediators seeking to end hostilities.
Türkiye has been the first country to halt trade relations with Israel since May 2024.