Erdogan Calls for Neutralizing “Israeli Provocations” to Achieve Middle East Stability

DID Press: Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stated that lasting stability in the Middle East requires ending what he described as “Israeli provocations,” adding that conditions must first be created for what he called genuine peace in the region.

Speaking to journalists on his return from Kazakhstan, Erdogan said that “provocations by Israel must first be neutralized before real peace can be built,” referencing recent U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran.

He stressed that achieving sustainable regional stability requires countries to abandon short-term calculations and prioritize the protection of their own citizens’ rights rather than external interests.

The Turkish president also reaffirmed Ankara’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, enhancing defense capabilities, and expanding diplomatic engagement with NATO allies and the European Union.

Erdogan further emphasized the importance of including the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the Organization of Turkic States and said Turkey would work to elevate the organization during its upcoming chairmanship.

He also commented on the upcoming NATO summit, saying Ankara expects key decisions on the alliance’s future role in global security architecture, while describing Turkey as a “major opportunity” for the European Union to reconsider its strategic direction.