By Seda Sevencan and Necva Tastan
ISTANBUL (AA) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday warned that any reattempt by a PKK terror group to hold a so-called election in Syria would face resolute opposition from Türkiye.
"There is no election whatsoever; let's make that clear first," he said in response to questions by journalists on his return from Spain and Italy visits. "There is a scheme arranged to legitimize a terrorist organization and to establish a terror state in the region.”
Erdogan emphasized Türkiye's track record in disrupting such schemes in the past.
Noting that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held extensive discussions in Moscow with President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on these critical matters, Erdogan said: “The PKK terrorist organization and others will not have the opportunity to act freely in Syria. If such a situation arises, we will certainly mobilize our relevant units accordingly. We will not allow a terror state to be established right under our noses. We will never and never hesitate to do whatever is necessary to achieve this.”
The terror group had earlier announced that the so-called local elections, previously scheduled for June 11 in occupied territories, were postponed to Aug. 18.
- Türkiye and Spain's stance on Palestine
Erdogan highlighted the growing commercial and cultural ties between Türkiye and Spain, and emphasized the unified stance of the two countries on the Palestinian issue.
“Spain has proven to be a lighthouse guiding humanity's ship in the dark," he said, referring to Madrid's decision to recognize a Palestinian state as of May 28, along with Norway and Ireland.
“Our shared perspective with Spain on the Palestine issue is crucial," Erdogan said, adding that Spain’s position could influence other European nations to reconsider their support for Israel.
"To pass the trial that humanity is currently facing about Palestine, I believe it is imperative for additional countries to resolutely voice their opposition to Israel and position themselves on the side of peace," he said.
- UN resolution on cease-fire
Erdogan also expressed cautious optimism regarding the UN Security Council adopting a resolution proposing a three-phase cease-fire deal in Gaza, where Israel has killed more than 37,000 Palestinians in just over eight months.
"While the resolution adopted by the UN Security Council is a positive step, it may be deemed inadequate. Israel's history of overlooking numerous decisions made on paper is well-known."
He reiterated that the path to final peace in the region lies in a two-state solution, and urged the Security Council members to recognize Palestine as a state.
Erdogan said he was pleased with the truce offer announced by US President Joe Biden on May 31, but said there was a need for sincere efforts to put an end to the violence in Palestine.
Commenting on US relations with Israel and a protest movement in favor of Palestine across the country, he said: “The rising voices from American universities, streets, students, and rectors indicate that a significant change is underway."
“Hopefully, with the upcoming election in the US, the atmosphere might develop differently," he remarked.
- Eurofighter Typhoons
On the procurement of Eurofighter Typhoons and Germany’s objection, Erdogan said there had been talks with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on the issue.
“As you know, Spain's training aircraft are important. They have the chance or ability to provide us with these training aircraft. But at the point of contact with Germany, I told them [Spain] about helping us in this regard.” The jets are jointly developed by Germany, the UK, Italy and Spain.
"Eurofighter is important for us right now," Erdogan said, adding that ministerial counterparts are engaged in discussions to further this agenda. He emphasized Türkiye's preference to buy defense products from NATO allies.
"Our basic approach is clear: we prefer to meet our needs primarily from our NATO allies. However, if a negative result is obtained at the end of the process, we are not without alternatives,” the Turkish leader said.
Erdogan pointed out Türkiye’s recent advancements in defense capabilities, including the KAAN fighter jet.
- Concerns over racism in Europe
The Turkish president also emphasized the need for Europe to confront a rise in racism, warning of consequences if left unchecked. "We have been pointing out the impending danger for a long time," Erdogan said, commenting on a question on far-right gains in the recently held European Parliament elections.
“It is crucial for Europe to act ... and implement realistic measures, otherwise, this fire will reach a point where it burns everyone,” Erdogan said.
“Similar dangers also exist in terms of terrorism,” Erdogan said, calling on Europe to combat all forms of terrorism indiscriminately. "Let us permanently remove the scourge of terrorism from our agenda together."