Erdogan sends Fidan to Gaza Peace Board, asserts Türkiye's European security role
2026-02-18 - 10:32
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan revealed Wednesday that Türkiye has received an invitation to the inaugural Gaza Peace Board meeting and will be represented by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Speaking to journalists aboard his return flight from Ethiopia, Erdogan outlined Türkiye's position on multiple regional issues while reaffirming Ankara's indispensable role in European and Middle Eastern security architecture. Türkiye's European Security Message The president delivered a pointed message regarding transatlantic and continental security, stating unequivocally that "Europe cannot build a credible security framework without Türkiye." Erdogan expressed hope that European capitals now understand this reality, reinforcing Ankara's long-standing argument that its NATO membership, strategic location, and military capabilities make it essential to any meaningful European defense structure. The remarks come amid ongoing discussions about European strategic autonomy and the continent's defense relationships with both the United States and key regional partners. Syrian Integration and Regional Monitoring Erdogan also addressed developments in neighboring Syria, noting that Ankara is closely monitoring steps toward full Syrian integration and providing necessary guidance for implementing relevant agreements. Türkiye maintains significant influence in northern Syria and has been engaged in diplomatic efforts to shape the country's post-conflict trajectory, including discussions about constitutional processes, refugee returns, and counterterrorism coordination with various Syrian actors. Opposition to Military Action Against Iran In a significant policy statement, the president declared that "Türkiye is against military intervention in Iran" and has conveyed this position to all counterparts. The statement places Ankara firmly in opposition to any potential military action against Tehran, aligning Türkiye with those advocating diplomatic solutions to tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear program and regional activities. The position reflects Türkiye's broader foreign policy approach of opposing military interventions in neighboring countries and maintaining dialogue with all regional actors despite international pressure. Gaza Peace Board Participation Fidan's attendance at the Gaza Peace Board meeting signals Türkiye's intention to play an active role in post-conflict reconstruction and governance discussions for the Palestinian enclave. The board, established under US leadership with partial UN Security Council endorsement, represents an international mechanism for coordinating Gaza's recovery. Türkiye's participation at the foreign minister level underscores its commitment to shaping outcomes in Palestine and its broader engagement in Middle East peace processes, building on Ankara's longstanding support for Palestinian causes and its recent diplomatic activism in the region.