Erdogan Criticizes Sharm El-Sheikh Agreement: A Vision for Sustainable and Just Solution to the Palestinian Issue

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan concluded his visit to Egypt following his participation in the "Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit," stressing that the reached agreement is not a definitive solution to the Palestinian issue, but rather a step toward a ceasefire. He emphasized the importance of precise implementation of the agreement and continued US influence on the Israeli government to achieve the desired outcomes.​

Erdogan stated that the prisoner exchange deal is a significant move toward calming the situation, yet it falls short of resolving the Palestinian issue. According to him, a fair solution lies in establishing an independent Palestinian state with full sovereignty along the 1967 borders and East Jerusalem as its capital. He reiterated his government's determination to pursue diplomatic efforts to accomplish this objective, despite the difficult and challenging path ahead.

Expressing concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, Erdogan called for accelerating the implementation of the reconstruction plan approved by Arab and Islamic countries. He praised Turkish humanitarian efforts, noting that more than 350 Turkish aid trucks have entered Gaza out of the 600 daily trucks stipulated in the agreement, aiming to alleviate Palestinian suffering. He appealed to Western countries to ensure their recognition of Palestine is tangible and foundational, not merely symbolic, emphasizing that such steps could enhance prospects for lasting peace through a two-state solution.

Erdogan also highlighted the signing of a quadrilateral document entitled "Trump Agreement for Permanent Peace and Prosperity" with the leaders of Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, aiming to establish a new vision for peace and stability in the region. He confirmed Turkey's readiness to participate in reconstruction and revitalization efforts in Gaza and to provide ready-made housing units before winter arrives.

The Turkish president concluded that "this time, calm is protected by stronger international will," adding that the summit countries will act as guarantors for implementing and monitoring the agreement. He stressed that the summit has sent a clear message to Israel: the era of expansionist policies is over, noting that Palestinian resistance remains unbroken despite significant suffering and human loss.