UPDATE - Turkish president calls on Islamic world to unite against Israel's genocide in Gaza

UPDATES WITH MORE REMARKS BY TURKISH PRESIDENT RECEP TAYYIP ERDOGAN

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ISTANBUL (AA) – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized on Monday the critical need for the Islamic world to set aside differences and unite in support of the Palestinian and Lebanese people in their rightful struggle against Israeli aggression.

Speaking at the opening event of the 40th Session of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation of the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (COMCEC) in Istanbul, Erdogan said one of the most brutal genocides of the century is taking place in Gaza.

"​​​​​​​It is of great importance for the Islamic world to put aside differences and support the Palestinian and Lebanese people," he added.

The Zionist regime and its supporters committed all kinds of oppression and genocide for 13 months, but they have not been able to subdue the Palestinians, said the Turkish leader.

"We are witnessing an inhumanity that overshadows the extermination camps established in the heart of Europe during World War II, first in Gaza and now in Lebanon over the past six weeks," he said.

President Erdogan emphasized that they have completely halted trade transactions with Israel, indicating that this decision represents a loss of approximately $9.5 billion in trade volume.

He added that one of the best answers to the Zionist aggression against Gaza and Lebanon is recognition of the Palestine state by more countries.

"Today, once again, I salute my Palestinian brothers and sisters, who, despite all forms of impossibility, deprivation, and abandonment, stand firm and defend their land at the cost of their lives," he said.

Türkiye, with Egyptian support, has delivered over 85,000 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza, Erdogan said.

The president expressed his pleasure as COMCEC chairman to host participants in Istanbul, an ancient city that symbolizes civilization's shared values through its rich cultural heritage and history, bridging Asia and Europe.

He also conveyed his gratitude to everyone who has contributed to strengthening COMCEC's institutional framework over the past 40 years.

Israel has continued a devastating offensive on Gaza since an attack last year by Hamas, despite a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire.

More than 43,300 people have since been killed, mostly women and children, and over 102,000 others injured, according to local health authorities.

Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its deadly war on Gaza.

- Significance of cooperation efforts within OIC increased recently

Erdogan emphasized that the significance of cooperation efforts within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has increased in recent years as the global economy has slowed.

"Given the rapid advancement of technology, it is crucial for our youth to be protected from threats while benefiting from digital environments.

"We must be more vigilant than ever in enhancing their knowledge and skills regarding cyberattacks and data breaches," he added.

The importance of being able to withstand cyberattacks is clearly demonstrated by recent terrorist acts in Lebanon, Erdogan stated.

Noting that the world economy grew by 3.3% in 2023 and is expected to grow at the same rate in 2024 and 2025, Erdogan said: "Uncertainties, such as geopolitical tensions and the persistently high global inflation rates seen over the last 60-70 years, are placing pressure on global economic activities."

"The energy and supply security challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, shipping costs, disruptions in the supply chain, and obstacles in maritime trade continue to negatively impact global goods and services trade."

"Increasing protectionism poses a barrier to achieving the desired levels of global trade volume," he added.