President Erdoğan: Trump asked us to convince Hamas.

08.10.2025 12:37

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan answered journalists' questions on the plane returning from the Turkish States Organization Summit in Azerbaijan. Erdoğan stated that he explained the peace process in Palestine during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, adding that Trump requested him to engage with Hamas and persuade them.

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President Erdoğan, who attended the 12th Summit of the Turkic States Organization held in Azerbaijan, answered questions from journalists on the plane during his return journey to the homeland.

Providing information about the details of his recent phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, Erdoğan stated, "We explained to Mr. Trump how a solution could be achieved in Palestine during both our visit to America and our most recent phone conversation. He specifically requested us to engage with Hamas and to persuade them. We have swiftly contacted our counterparts on this matter," he said.

President Erdoğan responded to journalists' questions on the agenda as follows:

Mr. President, there are great tensions in the world. There is a risk that these tensions could turn into a global conflict. In this context, defense agreements are being made between some countries. Is it possible to take further steps regarding defense and security within the Turkic States Organization? Do you have an assessment on this matter?

Dear friends, first of all, the Turkic States Organization is no longer just a cultural unity. It is a platform for strategic solidarity. Just as the tensions in the world affect everyone, they also closely concern the member countries of the Turkic States Organization. Considering their proximity to conflict zones, it is possible to say that our family council is affected by these tensions more than other countries in the world. Therefore, where there is risk, precautions will certainly follow. However, we are also prepared for all kinds of situations. We are discussing multidimensional cooperation from intelligence to border security to cyberspace. There is a trend in the world to increase defense spending and take further steps in security. As members of the Turkic States Organization, we are also taking steps in this direction. Further steps will be evaluated from every aspect and taken when necessary.

"HAMAS IS AHEAD OF ISRAEL"

Upon your return from the United Nations visit, you mentioned your meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, stating, "We explained the steps to be taken for a ceasefire first and then for lasting peace regarding both Gaza and Palestine." Subsequently, steps were taken one after another. Donald Trump had given Hamas a deadline last Friday. Then they had a phone conversation with you. What were the ways for Turkey to persuade both the United States and Hamas during this process?

All Palestinians know that Turkey protects and watches over the interests of Palestine. We defend the rights of the oppressed in Gaza and the rights of our brothers in other regions of Palestine as if we were defending ourselves. We have been striving for years to stop the bloodshed in Gaza and to ensure the safety of the oppressed. We have always been in contact with Hamas during this process. We are currently in contact again. We are explaining what the most reasonable path is and what needs to be done for Palestine to move forward with confidence. Right now, our friends are in Sharm El-Sheikh. They were there all day. Starting tomorrow morning, they will begin discussions. We explained to Mr. Trump how a solution could be achieved in Palestine during both our visit to America and our most recent phone conversation. He specifically requested us to engage with Hamas and to persuade them. We have swiftly contacted our counterparts on this matter. I told Mr. Trump that we support his peace efforts. We also announced this to the public. Hamas expressed to us through their response that they are ready for peace and negotiations. In other words, they did not enter into a contradictory discourse. In my opinion, this is a very valuable step. Hamas is ahead of Israel. Why do I say this? Because they have suffered such losses. There are over 100,000 injured. All the places they stayed have been destroyed. They no longer have any place to shelter. We have not seen, nor do we expect, Israel to exhibit similar and constructive attitudes so far. We will strive to eliminate the Israel-Palestine issue based on a two-state solution. Our hope is that, with the support you provide, we can achieve this.

WILL TURKISH SOLDIERS BE IN GAZA?

A hope for peace has emerged for Gaza. They accepted U.S. President Trump's peace plan. Although negotiations are still ongoing on some articles. Now, when we look at that peace plan, there are two notable international formations. One is a Peace Council positioned over the temporary administration in Palestine. The other is an International Stabilization Force for security... You say in every speech, "We are here for every effort for Gaza." I am curious, will Turkey be able to participate in these two international formations, the Peace Council and the International Stabilization Force? Or let me ask this way, will Turkish soldiers be in Gaza?

Our priority is to achieve an urgent and comprehensive ceasefire as soon as possible. We must first succeed in this. Humanitarian aid must be delivered to Gaza without interruption as soon as possible. Rebuilding the infrastructure of Gaza, which has been destroyed as a result of Israeli attacks, is also among our priorities. We are conducting intense diplomatic traffic for this. It is very important that Gaza remains the land of the Palestinian people. Ultimately, it is crucial that Gaza is managed by the Palestinians. The issue of how security will be ensured and how the stabilization force will be established and operated can be evaluated in detail. For this reason, I truly value the negotiations in Sharm El-Sheikh. Discussions began today, but tomorrow's discussions are important. Our National Intelligence Organization President will also be there. The outcome from there is of great importance. When I say, "We support every effort," I made this statement considering all possibilities. We hope that Israel keeps its promises and does not take steps to sabotage this peace. We are as hopeful for a lasting ceasefire and peace as we are cautious.

"WE WILL NOT TAKE A SINGLE STEP BACK"

Mr. President, you brought 36 Turks and 137 activists from the Sumud Fleet to our country. Foreign activists thanked Turkey as they disembarked from the plane. Here, Turkey's global power has become even more evident. We see that our country is effective and competent in all matters in our region and has a bilateral position. How should we interpret the upcoming process?

The first stage you mentioned has been completed. In the second stage, a total of 16 people, 14 of whom are citizens of the Republic of Turkey, were taken from Israel. They passed to Jordan and then came to Istanbul. In other words, we have taken the Sumud groups in Israel in two separate batches. This fleet has made the unlawful blockade imposed by Israel on Gaza visible.

They have only managed to deliver their humanitarian aid ships to the waters of Gaza and break the blockade. In my opinion, the most important aspect of this success is this. As Turkey, we closely monitored the process with our drones and ships from the very first moment the Sumud Fleet set sail. For example, on Sunday, from the images obtained by our Akıncı drones, I watched almost from morning until evening what the Sumud Fleet was doing and its condition. Our teams were already continuously monitoring. Our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and our intelligence worked very hard during this process. Unfortunately, Israel intervened in the fleet in international waters, violating international law. We worked intensively to rescue both our citizens and the citizens of other countries in the fleet from Israel's hands. We started the evacuation of our citizens in a short time. When the first delegation arrived, our friends, including my own daughter, welcomed our citizens and those coming from other countries. Turkish Airlines made very nice preparations for all of them. They prepared clothes for them. Meals were served, including a vegetarian menu. "We received interest and attention from Turkish Airlines that we have never seen anywhere else," they said. Beyond international diplomacy, a different beauty emerged there. May God bless all our friends. May God bless the managers of Turkish Airlines. Those in the second phase also came through Jordan. They also reached safety in the best way. We recorded the experiences of the activists who reached Turkey with both medical reports and legal documents. We continue our struggle on both the diplomatic and legal fronts. We will not take a single step back from this.

"OUR GENERATION KNOWS THEM WELL"

Since October 7, 2023, due to what has happened in Gaza, both the international system and the human family, as well as each one of us individually, have gone through a very shocking and painful two years. However, undoubtedly, due to your position, your loyalty to the Palestinian cause, and your experience, you have seen a different face of what is happening, without any curtains. You have seen a dimension of it that we did not see. I want to ask for the sake of recording history. What did you see specifically regarding Gaza? What would your assessment be?

I can say that Gaza has become a visible front of the apocalypse in the world. Think about it, 67 thousand Gazans martyred. On the other side, more than 169 thousand injured. But there is something even more interesting. One of my friends next to me said, "These numbers are wrong." I asked, "Why?" He said, "The numbers are not like this. When we also consider those trapped under the rubble, it is said that the numbers are around 600 thousand." Come on, we are currently only talking about 169 thousand injured. We are talking about our martyrs. But humanity remains silent in the face of all this. Unfortunately, there is nothing being done. We have left behind two years filled with pain, blood, and tears. We have witnessed a great drama and genocide in Gaza. Israel's attacks, which trample on international law, have left a dark stain in history. What Israel is doing is not legitimate self-defense; it is a planned genocide and terrorism. The massacres that Israel carries out recklessly in front of our eyes and those who ignore them have been recorded as a shameful part of human history. There is no forgiving these actions. While Israel kills babies, targets hospitals, ambulances, marketplaces, refugee tents, United Nations missions, schools, and places of worship, those who construct sentences with "but" and "however" will not be able to explain their attitudes to future generations. History records both those who stand on the right side and those who insist on the wrong side. It is clear where everyone stood during the Nazi genocide. It is also clear who ignored genocides in Bosnia and other geographies. Our generation knows them very well. Just as they are experiencing a shame today, those who remain silent about the Gaza genocide will face a similar fate tomorrow. We take pride in standing on the right side of history, both yesterday and today. That is why we are at peace.

WARNING TO THE SDF: WE CANNOT ACCEPT THIS

The SDF in Syria is already persistently not complying with the March 10 agreement. In fact, as of yesterday, they also carried out an attack on the Syrian army. The situation seems to have calmed down for now, but there will likely be a continuation. At least the signs indicate so. You have made your warnings multiple times. It is evident that the SDF is also being provoked by Israel. There are some discussions today as well. Beyond that, there are also talks about security discussions and agreements between Syria and Israel. What will our action plan be in the upcoming process?

We are taking a clear stance on this issue. We will never allow Syria to be dragged back into instability. Turkey is closely monitoring all developments on the ground. Our patient, prudent, and dignified attitude should never be perceived as a weakness. The Syrian Democratic Forces must keep their promises. They must complete the integration with Syria. I believe that if we act with the spirit of common history and common future, many problems will be solved. I have said it before. Those who turn their direction towards Ankara and Damascus will win. The Turkish, Kurdish, and Arab alliance is the key to eternal peace and tranquility in the region. No one should fall for provocations or get carried away by false hopes. In the tension in Aleppo, the Syrian administration has maintained its sensitivity and has also announced that it expects the Syrian Democratic Forces to act in accordance with the March 10 agreement. The territorial integrity of Syria is non-negotiable for us. We cannot accept attitudes against this. Syrian President Ahmed Shara and his administration share the same view as us. As Turkey, we will continue to stand by the people of Syria.

"WE HAVE STARTED A NEW ERA IN TURKEY-US RELATIONS"

After returning from America, you had another meeting with Trump. What topics did you discuss in this meeting? Did the F-35 issue come up? Will the CAATSA sanctions be lifted?

There is a cooperation between Turkey and America in all areas, including the defense industry. We are negotiating both issues with America to develop these relations and we expect positive results. In our meeting with Mr. Trump, we received positive messages in this direction. We brought up the F-35 issue clearly and explicitly. In addition, Turkey is a partner in this project, has paid its share, and has fulfilled its obligations. There is no legitimacy to the reasons for removing us from this program. Mr. Trump had previously indirectly mentioned this as well. Necessary technical discussions are being held at all levels to take concrete steps. We hope that in the end, both the F-35 issue will be resolved, and the CAATSA sanctions will be lifted. We need to achieve this as well. Our visit has initiated a new era in Turkey-US relations and has further strengthened the dialogue and friendship between us.

Mr. President, one of the important topics that came up during your meetings in the United States was the situation of Halk Bank.

What result was obtained from this meeting?

Mr. Trump stated in our contacts in America and in our recent phone conversation that "the problem of Halk Bank is over for us." Of course, this is an important declaration of political will, and it is valuable for us as well. On the other hand, we know that there are some processes that need to be completed. Our hope is that these processes will conclude positively as soon as possible.

DISCUSSIONS REGARDING THE PHOTO AT THE RECEPTION

Mr. President, I extend my respects. A photo was shared at the reception on October 1, when the Parliament opened. We have seen that this photo has been widely discussed in the public. What do you think about this?

The presence of those who attended the Parliament opening reception was very important for us. We also met with the DEM Group there and had conversations. Besides these conversations, we had the opportunity to discuss what can be done for the future. I hope that what follows will be good. As for the photo taken at the reception, that frame is the real picture of Turkey. Some are trying to depict Turkey as divided into camps and shattered, but the truth is the picture of unity and solidarity there. Those who cannot be a part of that picture should sit down and hold themselves accountable.

THE ISSUE OF CHILDREN INVOLVED IN CRIME

Recently, the use of children, especially those under 18, by terrorist organizations and gangs is met with sensitivity in our families. I know that in the 11th Judicial Package, there will be an increase in penalties regarding this issue. But besides these, will there be other sanctions?

The murders committed by individuals under 18 have burned our hearts. We are determined to rescue our children from the hands of terrorist organizations and criminal gangs. As a state, we are in a comprehensive struggle on this issue. With the 11th Judicial Package, we are increasing the deterrence in penalties. But punishment alone is not enough. Without strengthening the family, supporting education, and enhancing social solidarity, there will be no permanent solution. We are unfortunately facing a complex problem that cannot be solved solely by punishment or by regulations in the education system. In addition to penal regulations, we are working on measures that prioritize protecting children who are isolated, exposed to violence, or witnesses, from becoming involved in crime. In other words, we are also focusing on the factors that lead to children becoming involved in crime.

INFLATION FIGURES

Inflation exceeded expectations in September. In response, certain circles have begun to criticize the economic structure again. Would you like to send a message to these pessimistic centers and sensible citizens?

Due to seasonal effects, inflation came in above expectations in September, that is true. But no one should turn this situation into a picture of pessimism regarding the Turkish economy. Because we are not running a program that just saves the day, but one that builds the future. We continue to implement our program with determination and success. Along with all this, we are focused not on seasonal fluctuations but on the overall picture of the economy. Fighting inflation is undoubtedly not easy. In the past, we succeeded in this struggle. Today, we can succeed again. Because we are experienced in this matter. We know how to handle this, and we are striving to find a way out. Do not worry, the Turkish economy is built on strong foundations.

We know your sensitivity regarding children is as strong as your sensitivity regarding the Palestinian issue. We came across it on social media today. Today is October 7. You surely haven't forgotten.

May God bless you. It is not easy. May God not give anyone a life without a mother. And may He not test us with that. I mean, so much time has passed, but living without a mother until now is unbearable. May God gather us with our mothers in paradise and in His beauty.