Türkiye (Washington Insider Magazine)— Türkiye has blamed the United States and other Western nations for supporting Israel’s actions in Gaza. It further describes Israel’s actions as a genocide. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan made these remarks during a joint news conference with his Cambodian counterpart, Sok Chenda Sophea, in Ankara.
Genocide Allegations and International Impact
“The genocide in Gaza cannot continue without the support of the U.S. and some other Western countries,” stated Fidan. He denounced Israel’s crimes and asserted that the security and defense of Israel cannot justify genocide against another nation. Fidan cautioned that this situation would have severe repercussions for the international community.
Cambodia’s Position
According to Dailysabah, Sok Chenda Sophea echoed Fidan’s thoughts. He further described the situation in Gaza as terrible and expressed optimism for an end to the tragedy with Turkish support. He asserted Cambodia’s support for a two-state solution and called upon the recognition of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations.
Historical Context and Diplomatic Relations
Both Türkiye and Cambodia recognized Palestine in 1988 and maintained diplomatic relations with Israel. However, Türkiye has experienced periodic breaks in its political and commercial alliance with Israel, the most recent of which occurred last October due to the Israeli offensive in Gaza.
International Reactions and Calls for Ceasefire
Fidan stressed that Israel’s actions in Gaza are unacceptable under the guise of self-defense, condemning the “inhumane activities” and predicting consequences under international law. He also highlighted the killing of an Egyptian soldier by Israel at the Rafah border, warning of the risk of conflict spillover.
The international community has called for an end to Israel’s operations in Rafah, where recent airstrikes killed 45 people near a U.N. logistics base. The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 36,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, since October 7.
US and International Response
Despite warnings from the United States and its allies, Israel has continued its airstrikes against armless civilians. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered Israel to halt its actions in Rafah, but it lacks the authority to execute the decision. The Biden administration has not taken real steps to halt Israel, with President Biden praising Israel’s actions and denying that genocide is taking place in Gaza. The United States has also blocked multiple UN resolutions asking for a cease-fire and full UN membership for Palestine.