Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has condemned Israel’s actions against the Global Sumud Flotilla, describing them as “piracy and banditry” and urging the international community to respond to what he called Israel’s “lawless actions.”
Speaking after a Cabinet meeting in Ankara on Monday, Erdogan said Israel’s interception and attacks targeting the aid mission would not weaken global solidarity with Palestinians or efforts to pursue justice for Gaza.
“We condemn Israel’s piracy and banditry in the strongest terms,” Erdogan said, adding that the flotilla represented a humanitarian mission supported by activists from around 40 countries.
The Turkish president called on the international community to take concrete steps against Israel’s actions and accused Tel Aviv of continuing to violate international law through its blockade and attacks on Gaza.
Aid convoy targeted
The Global Sumud Flotilla was organised as part of international efforts to challenge Israel’s blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian assistance to Palestinians facing worsening humanitarian conditions after months of Israeli attacks on the enclave.
The mission included activists, medics and human rights advocates travelling aboard aid vessels carrying humanitarian supplies intended for Gaza.
Türkiye has repeatedly criticised Israel’s brutal war on Gaza and has been among the strongest international voices calling for an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access and accountability for attacks on civilians.
Ankara has also backed international legal efforts against Israel and intensified diplomatic outreach aimed at increasing pressure on Tel Aviv over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
