Turkish president congratulates British premier for statements on recognizing Palestine

ISTANBUL

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday congratulated British Prime Minister Starmer for his statements on recognition of the state of Palestine.

In a phone call, the two leaders discussed relations between Türkiye and the United Kingdom, as well as regional and global issues, said the Turkish Communications Directorate.

Erdogan said that the humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a critical point and that it is the duty of humanity to go beyond merely voicing concern about the events.

He emphasized the importance of taking steps to compel Israel to pursue a ceasefire and a two-state solution.

Türkiye continuously sends humanitarian aid to Gaza, supports the efforts of mediators to achieve a ceasefire in the region, and backs ceasefire negotiations, added Erdogan.

'Appalling' humanitarian crisis in Gaza

According to a statement by Starmer's office, the leaders discussed the "appalling" humanitarian crisis in Gaza as they were both clear that an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and the urgent lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid are paramount.

During the conversation, the British premier spoke on the UK's plans to take further action in a bid to get humanitarian aid to those who need it and his work so far with allies on a long-term peace plan.

"He outlined that it was his government’s longstanding position that a viable and sovereign Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel can be the only basis for a just and lasting peace," said the statement.

Starmer also set out how the UK will recognize the state of Palestine before the UN General Assembly in September "unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza and commits to a long-term peace."

Turning to Iran, Starmer said that only a diplomatic solution can end "Iran’s nuclear ambitions" in the long-term and welcomed Türkiye’s role in hosting recent talks.

Erdogan and Starmer also discussed the latest progress towards signing a new export deal to sell UK-built Typhoon jets to Türkiye, and said they look forward to speaking again soon.

Last month, the UK and Türkiye agreed on a big step towards the export of Typhoon fighter jets after the defense chiefs of both countries signed a memorandum of understanding in Istanbul.