Erdogan: Failure to sanction Israel undermines international law

In an article published on Al Jazeera Net and republished by the Palestinian Information Center, titled “Gaza: A Test of Humanity’s Conscience,” Erdogan called on the world to act against the brutality in Gaza.

In the article, also published on the website of the Turkish Presidential Directorate of Communications, Erdogan emphasized that the tragedy in Gaza is not merely a conflict confined to a narrow geographical area, but rather a humanitarian catastrophe that wounds the conscience of all humanity, and continues to worsen day by day.

He explained that the continuous Israeli bombardment for months has deliberately targeted women, children, and the elderly, rendering cities uninhabitable. Homes, hospitals, schools, and places of worship have been destroyed, while basic services such as food, water, healthcare, and electricity have collapsed.

He pointed out that hunger, thirst, and the threat of disease are pushing Gaza toward total humanitarian collapse, noting that more than 61,000 Palestinians—most of them women and children—have been martyred in Zionist regime’s attacks.

He stressed that this scene signals not only war but also a deliberate policy of systematic destruction.

President Erdogan affirmed that the crisis in Gaza is a true test of the international community’s ability to uphold fundamental human values.

He added that the failure to impose sanctions on Israel for its actions contributes to the erosion of international law and human rights norms.

He warned that the world’s silence or weak reactions to this dire situation only deepen the suffering and pave the way for continued oppression.

He wrote: “While the Western world moves swiftly in response to other crises, its hesitant stance on Gaza undermines the credibility of the international order that claims to be based on principles and justice.”

He emphasized that if Gaza had received the same swift and comprehensive attention as the crisis in Ukraine, we would be witnessing a very different reality today.

He reiterated that Israel’s actions, carried out without any consequences, are directly weakening international legal frameworks and human rights standards.

Erdogan reaffirmed that the crisis in Gaza is a real test for the international community’s commitment to defending core human values.

He stated that Türkiye has maintained a firm, consistent, and resolute stance from the beginning, working to end the massacres and worsening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

He highlighted that the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the Turkish Red Crescent, and various Turkish NGOs are actively working on the ground.

Erdogan explained that “the solutions are generally clear: First, an immediate and unconditional ceasefire must be declared, and all attacks must stop. Humanitarian corridors must be opened to ensure unrestricted access to food, water, and medical aid. Furthermore, international mechanisms should be established to protect civilians.”

He concluded by affirming Türkiye’s readiness to serve as the organizing body for this process.