Français
Español
English
Portuguese
Erdogan compared the international response to Israel’s actions to the world’s failure to confront Nazi Germany before World War II.
By United with Israel Staff
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan sharply escalated his rhetoric against Israel on Tuesday, accusing Jerusalem of destabilizing the region and warning that Israeli military operations in Syria and Lebanon could eventually threaten Turkey’s security.
Speaking about growing tensions across the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean, Erdogan criticized what he described as Israeli actions beyond its borders and cautioned against further escalation.
“We are seeing provocative initiatives led by Israel in the Mediterranean as well,” Erdogan said. “No one should pursue adventures in this region.”
He argued that Israel’s military operations in Syria and Lebanon had reached a point where they pose a direct threat to Turkey.
Erdogan also warned that Ankara would respond forcefully if it believes the rights of Turkey or Turkish Cypriots are being violated in the eastern Mediterranean.
“Our response will be clear and strong if the rights of Turks and Turkish Cypriots are infringed,” he said.
The Turkish leader then launched a broader attack on Israel, comparing the international response to Israel’s actions to the world’s failure to confront Nazi Germany before World War II.
“Eighty-five years ago, silence and inaction in the face of Hitler led to the deaths of 80 million people around the world,” Erdogan said. “Today, the same mistake is being repeated.”
Erdogan also linked the current tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional instability to Israel’s actions, warning that the consequences could spread far beyond the Middle East.
“If Israel’s recklessness is not brought to an end, all of humanity, together with the region, will bear the consequences,” he said.
Netanyahu responded forcefully, accusing Erdogan of hypocrisy and rejecting the Turkish leader’s criticism.
“The antisemitic dictator Erdogan, who is committing genocide against the Kurds, supports the Hamas terrorist organization, oppresses his own people, and imprisons political opponents, is the last person who can preach morality to the State of Israel,” Netanyahu said.
The prime minister added that Israel would continue its military campaign against Iran and its regional proxies regardless of outside criticism.
“The State of Israel and the IDF, the most moral army in the world, will continue to act with strength against Iran and its proxies that threaten the Middle East and the entire world,” Netanyahu said.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!
