Ankara, Türkiye – Web Desk: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has held Israel responsible for what he described as an “illegal war” against Iran, warning that the ongoing conflict risks escalating into a wider regional crisis.
Speaking at a parliamentary group meeting of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in Ankara, Erdogan said Israel’s government bears “primary responsibility” for the conflict, which he accused of destabilizing the region and placing an economic burden on the global community.
He further claimed that continued violence serves the political survival of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that every drop of blood shed prolongs the crisis.
The Turkish leader emphasized that the conflict, which began on February 28, has now entered its second month, with risks and uncertainties continuing to grow. He warned that retaliatory strikes targeting energy infrastructure, transport networks, and civilian facilities could trigger a broader regional war.
Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to pursuing peace through diplomatic channels, saying Ankara would make “every possible effort” to prevent further bloodshed, even at significant risk.
He also highlighted ongoing diplomatic engagements, noting that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan participated in a four-party meeting in Pakistan alongside counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan to discuss de-escalation measures.
Senior Turkish officials, including Defense Minister Yasar Guler and intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin, are also actively involved in efforts to address the crisis, he added.
Erdogan stressed that Türkiye has consistently advocated dialogue, diplomacy, and compromise since the start of the conflict, warning that war with Iran undermines global peace and stability. He called for prioritizing common ground over maximalist demands to achieve a sustainable resolution.
