Erdoğan: Türkiye Will Continue to Stand Against Oppression and Injustice

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to opposing global injustice and oppression, stating that the country will always stand with those who are persecuted.

Türkiye’s Role in Global Humanitarian Efforts

Speaking at an event in Ankara on March 13, Erdoğan declared:

"Wherever there is oppression, where people are disregarded and persecuted, we stand with them. Wherever there is tyranny, conflict, or injustice, we are there to put an end to it."

He highlighted Türkiye’s long-standing role in providing refuge to those in need, particularly Syrian refugees. Since the outbreak of Syria’s civil war in 2011, Türkiye has hosted the largest Syrian refugee population, now nearly 3 million people.

Türkiye’s Firm Stance on Gaza and Israel

Türkiye has been one of the most outspoken critics of Israel, particularly since the Gaza conflict began in October 2023. Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, condemning Israeli attacks that resulted in over 48,000 civilian deaths.

"We have not remained silent in the face of injustice. Despite everything, we continue to advocate for the Palestinian cause. We have stood by the people of Gaza, looking the perpetrators of genocide in the eye."

In May 2024, Türkiye imposed a comprehensive trade embargo on Israel, cutting all commercial ties. Israeli media reported that the embargo led to rising prices in several sectors within Israel.

Commitment to Peace and Stability

Beyond Gaza, Erdoğan emphasized Türkiye’s diplomatic and humanitarian efforts in conflict zones such as Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, and Afghanistan.

"We are resolute in our commitment to doing whatever is necessary to establish peace. Moving forward, we will remain the voice of the voiceless, and we will continue to stand by those who are marginalized and ignored."

Türkiye also renewed its support for Syria’s post-Assad future. Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Türkiye pledged assistance to the newly established forces in Syria, aiming to support the country’s unity and reconstruction efforts.

Erdoğan’s statements reinforce Türkiye’s foreign policy direction, positioning itself as a leading advocate for humanitarian causes and a key player in regional stability efforts.