Today: 8 September 2025
15 November 2023
2 mins read

Erdogan Supports Hamas, Labels Israel as ‘Terrorist’

The Turkish leader also describes Hamas terrorists as “resistance fighters” trying to protect their lands and people…reports Asian Lite News

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan increased his criticism of Israel, calling it a “terrorist state” and claiming it is intent on destroying Gaza along with all of its residents.

In a fiery speech to members of his party, Erdogan also says his country will take steps to ensure that Israel’s political and military leaders are brought to trial in international courts, The Times of Israel reported.

“Israel is implementing a strategy of total destruction of a city and its people,” Erdogan says.

“I say openly that Israel is a terrorist state.”

The Turkish leader also describes Hamas terrorists as “resistance fighters” trying to protect their lands and people.

Erdogan made the comments days before he is set to depart on an official visit to Berlin. 

On Tuesday, German Chancellor said Erdogan’s accusations of fascism against Israel were “absurd”.

Erdogan has been an increasingly vocal critic of Israel’s war against Hamas, which was launched after the terror group carried out a murderous rampage across southern Israel on October 7, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians.

Israel was a long-time regional ally of Turkey before Erdogan came to power, but ties imploded after a 2010 Israeli commando raid on the Gaza-bound Mavi Marmara ship, part of a blockade-busting flotilla, that left dead 10 Turkish activists who attacked IDF soldiers aboard the ship.

Netanyahu and Erdogan repeatedly aimed brickbats at each other in the ensuing years, including mutual charges of genocide. In July 2014, Erdogan accused the Jewish state of “keeping Hitler’s spirit alive” during a war with Gaza.

Ties later saw a moderate improvement, but both countries withdrew their ambassadors in 2018 amid violence in Gaza and the Trump administration’s relocation of its embassy to Jerusalem.

Facing hardening diplomatic isolation and economic woes, Erdogan began to publicly display an openness toward rapprochement in December 2020.

In August of last year, Israel and Turkey announced a full renewal of diplomatic ties. Earlier this month, Ankara said it was recalling its ambassador to Israel for consultations due to Israel’s refusal to agree to a ceasefire in Gaza.

ALSO READ: ‘March for Israel’ in DC Against Antisemitism

Previous Story

‘March for Israel’ in DC Against Antisemitism

Next Story

Republican-Led Hindu Caucus Emerges as New Voice for Hindu Americans

Latest from -Top News

Al Zeer clinches UAE President’s Cup glory

Al Zeer stormed to a dramatic victory at Waregem Racecourse, clinching the UAE President’s Cup in Belgium, showcasing the UAE’s equestrian heritage and global sporting vision….reports Asian Lite News Before nearly 50,000

India, UAE chase $100b trade dream

India and the UAE reaffirmed their CEPA partnership, setting a $100 billion non-oil trade target by 2030, with strong focus on energy, food, healthcare, and technology….reports Asian Lite News India and the

From rubble to revival in Mosul

The UAE, UNESCO, and EU reopen Mosul’s restored cultural landmarks, turning ruins of war into a global symbol of resilience, coexistence, and shared human heritage….reports Asian Lite News In a landmark ceremony

UAE rescue teams fly into quake zone

UAE swiftly deploys rescue teams and relief aid to earthquake-hit Afghanistan as casualties surpass 1,400; rugged terrain and dwindling resources make global support critical now….reports Asian Lite News The United Arab Emirates
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Iran using 2 bases for drone attacks Israeli Def Min

Iran is using two bases to carry out maritime attacks

Centcom chief visits Israel’s Naval Commandos

Halevi and Kurilla discussed the continued expansion of the cooperation