Türkiye has always been a strong advocate for the Palestinian cause, and this commitment has been deeply rooted in our history and values. From our founding father Mustafa Kemal Atatürk to our current President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Türkiye has consistently stood by the Palestinian people in their struggle for justice and their right to self-determination. As a nation, we cannot and will not turn our back on this cause, which is not only a moral obligation but also a part of our identity.
For decades, the Palestinian people have been facing immense challenges and injustices, from illegal occupation to human rights violations. As a country that has experienced its own share of struggles and oppression, we understand the importance of standing in solidarity with those who are facing similar struggles. Our support for the Palestinian cause is not just a political stance, but a reflection of our values of justice, equality, and humanity.
Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye, recognized the importance of the Palestinian cause and its connection to our own struggle for independence. He famously stated, “Palestine is the apple of our eye, the most precious part of our soul.” This sentiment was not just empty words, as Türkiye was one of the first countries to recognize the state of Israel in 1949, with the condition that the rights of the Palestinian people were respected. Atatürk’s vision for Türkiye was one of peace, cooperation, and solidarity with all nations, and this included our support for the Palestinian cause.
President Erdoğan has continued this legacy, reaffirming Türkiye’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people. He has been a vocal advocate for the rights of the Palestinians, condemning the illegal occupation and calling for a just and lasting solution to the conflict. Under his leadership, Türkiye has also played a crucial role in providing humanitarian aid and support to the Palestinian people, despite facing criticism and backlash from some quarters.
Moreover, our commitment to the Palestinian cause goes beyond just words and rhetoric. Türkiye has taken concrete actions to support the Palestinian people, such as hosting the UN-sponsored World Conference on Palestine in 2018 and providing financial assistance to the Palestinian Authority. We have also consistently called for an end to the blockade on Gaza and for the recognition of East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine.
Some may argue that Türkiye’s support for the Palestinian cause is driven by political interests. However, our stance on this issue is not based on political gain, but on our principles and values. We firmly believe that the Palestinian people deserve their own sovereign state, with East Jerusalem as its capital, and that this is the only path to lasting peace and stability in the region. We will continue to stand by this belief and support the Palestinian people in their pursuit of justice and freedom.
It is also important to note that our support for the Palestinian cause is not at the expense of our relationships with other countries. We value our partnerships and alliances with other nations, but we also believe that our commitment to the Palestinian cause is not in conflict with these relationships. In fact, our stance on this issue has only strengthened our bonds with other Muslim-majority countries and has gained us respect from the international community.
As a nation, we have a responsibility to use our voice and influence to speak up for those who are oppressed and marginalized. The Palestinian people have been denied their basic rights for far too long, and it is our duty to stand by them and support their struggle. Turning our back on this cause would not only be a betrayal of our values but also a betrayal of our history and the legacy of our ancestors.
In conclusion, Türkiye cannot and will not turn its back on the Palestinian cause. It is a cause that is deeply ingrained in our history, values, and identity. We will continue to stand by the Palestinian people in their pursuit of justice and self-determination, and we call on the international community to join us in this noble cause. As President Erdoğan has stated, “The Palestinian cause is not just a cause for Palestinians, but a cause for all humanity.” Let us all unite in solidarity and support the Palestinian people until they achieve their rightful place in the world.
