Erdogan calls for an end to the Middle East war “before it escalates and engulfs the entire region”
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for an end to the war in the Middle East, warning that the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran risks spreading throughout the region.
The President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan. PHOTO: EPA-EFE
The Turkish leader delivered the message during a speech to his party's parliamentary group, warning of the dangers of an escalation of the conflict for regional stability.
“We must end this war before it escalates and engulfs the entire region. If diplomacy has a chance, it is entirely possible. We patiently continue our efforts to bring the parties back to the negotiating table.” Erdogan said, according to AFP and Agerpres.
The Turkish president described the confrontation as a “crazy, anarchic and illegal” war, warning that as the fighting continues, both the number of casualties and material losses will increase, and the effects will also be felt at the level of the global economy.
“We are all aware that if this insane, anarchic and illegal war continues, the human and material losses will worsen, and the cost to the world economy will only increase. As peoples in the region, we must not allow a conflict that we are already victims of to cause us further suffering.” added the Turkish leader.
Warning for Iran
Recep Tayyip Erdogan also issued a warning to Iran, asking the authorities in Tehran to avoid provocative actions. The statement comes after NATO air defense systems intercepted a second ballistic missile launched from Iran that entered Turkish airspace.
“Despite our clear warnings, highly inappropriate and provocative actions continue to be taken, jeopardizing Turkey's friendship with Iran,” Erdogan said.
According to the Turkish authorities, fragments resulting from the interception of the missile fell near the city of Gaziantep, but no casualties were reported. Turkey's Defense Ministry said the missile was destroyed before it could cause any damage.
