Türkiye calls on Israel to abide by UN-backed ceasefire, allow aid

2026-02-05 - 13:15

Türkiye has formally called on Israel to adhere to the ceasefire endorsed by the United Nations Security Council and to ensure humanitarian assistance reaches Gaza. The demand was issued by Defense Ministry spokesperson Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk during a weekly press briefing on Thursday, where he also condemned recent Israeli strikes in Gaza that caused civilian casualties. Regional stances on Syria and the Aegean Beyond the Gaza conflict, the Turkish ministry addressed several other regional foreign policy issues. Regarding Syria, officials stated they are monitoring the implementation of a recent agreement between the Syrian government and the YPG/SDF, stressing the importance of preserving Syria's "unitary structure" and the principle of "one state, one army." On tensions with Greece in the Aegean Sea, the ministry rejected Greek statements about extending territorial waters as "unilateral actions... contrary to international law and unacceptable." It insisted that a fair resolution could only be achieved through bilateral dialogue. Military cooperation with Egypt and Somalia The briefing also covered Türkiye's expanding military partnerships. Officials noted that a newly signed military framework agreement with Egypt aims to "enhance defense cooperation through the exchange of information and expertise." Furthermore, Türkiye announced it is strengthening its Air Component Command in Somalia with new deployments, committing to continue contributing to "the development of Somalia’s counter-terrorism capacity through military assistance, training, and advisory activities." Broader foreign policy context The comprehensive briefing underscores Türkiye's active and multifaceted foreign policy approach, positioning itself as a key regional actor. On the Palestinian issue, Türkiye consistently advocates for a ceasefire and criticizes Israeli military actions. Simultaneously, it seeks to influence outcomes in neighboring Syria, manages longstanding disputes with Greece, and deepens strategic military ties across North Africa and the Horn of Africa, reflecting its broad strategic interests.