Turkey Condemns Israel’s Attacks on Lebanon, Urges International Action – Reuters

ANKARA (Reuters) – Turkey has condemned Israel’s recent assaults on Lebanon, describing them as attempts to destabilize the region. The Turkish government has called for international action against these attacks and for an end to support for Israel.

In one of the most intense exchanges of cross-border fire since the escalation of its conflict with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza nearly a year ago, Israel has shifted its focus northward towards Hezbollah, which has been launching rockets into Israel in solidarity with Hamas. Both groups are backed by Iran.

Lebanese officials reported that Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions resulted in 492 deaths on Monday, marking the deadliest day in Lebanon in decades and causing tens of thousands to flee their homes.

In a statement issued late Monday, Turkey’s Foreign Ministry criticized countries that provide unconditional backing to Israel, accusing them of enabling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pursue his political agenda at the expense of human lives.

The ministry stressed the urgent need for all entities responsible for international peace and security, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to take immediate action.

Turkey, a NATO member, has openly denounced Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which began in retaliation for Hamas’ cross-border attacks on October 7. Ankara has also suspended all trade with Israel and is pursuing a genocide case against Israel at the World Court.

On Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with leaders including those from Greece, Germany, Iran, and Kuwait, as well as the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), during discussions at the U.N. General Assembly in New York regarding the Gaza conflict.

Erdogan emphasized to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian the need for steps toward peace in response to Israeli aggression. He also urged chief prosecutor Karim Khan to ensure accountability for Israel and to advance the ongoing genocide case against the country at the ICC.

Erdogan indicated that Netanyahu’s administration disregards international law and human rights while operating under the misconception that it faces no opposition to its actions.