In a bold statement, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan declared on Wednesday that Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, is not to be classified as a terrorist organization. Instead, Erdogan described Hamas as a liberation group fighting fervently to protect Palestinian lands and their people.
While NATO member Turkey acknowledged the civilian deaths caused by Hamas’ rampage in southern Israel on October 7, it also urged Israeli forces to exercise restraint. As the violence escalates and the humanitarian crisis worsens in Gaza, Ankara has strongly criticized Israel’s relentless bombardment of the territory.
Erdogan made this announcement while addressing lawmakers from his ruling AK Party, drawing on an Arabic word that describes individuals who fight for their faith.
“Hamas is not a terrorist organization; it is a liberation group, Mujahideen, waging a battle to protect its lands and people,” he expressed emphatically.
Unlike many of its NATO counterparts and the European Union, Turkey does not view Hamas as a terrorist organization and even provides a safe haven for members of the group on its own soil.
In advocating for a lasting solution to the long-standing Israel-Palestinian conflict, Ankara supports a two-state solution.
Furthermore, Erdogan criticized Western powers for their support of Israel’s bombing campaign in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire, unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and collaboration among Muslim nations to halt the ongoing violence.
“The perpetrators of the massacre and destruction in Gaza are those who provide unwavering support to Israel,” Erdogan proclaimed. “Israel’s attacks on Gaza, for both itself and its supporters, amount to nothing short of murder and mental illness.”
Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini swiftly rebuked Erdogan’s comments, deeming them “grave and disgusting” and asserting that they did not contribute towards de-escalation. Salvini has called on Italy’s foreign minister to lodge a formal protest with Ankara.
In a region riddled with conflict and disagreement, Erdogan’s statement has sparked a fervent debate over the classification and perception of Hamas. As the international community grapples with varying perspectives, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to demand urgent attention and a concerted effort towards resolution.
