Erdoğan Calls for De-escalation in Pakistan-India Tensions

ANKARA, Turkey — President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Monday urged an immediate reduction of hostilities between Pakistan and India to prevent further escalation in the conflict over Kashmir. He spoke at a news conference following a Cabinet meeting.

“Türkiye wants de-escalation of tensions between Pakistan and India as soon as possible, before it evolves into a more serious situation,” Erdoğan said, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomacy in light of recent cross-border exchanges of fire.

In addition to discussing the conflict in Kashmir, Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye’s support for Palestine. He stated, “Just like East Jerusalem and the West Bank, Gaza also belongs to the Palestinian people. Our brothers and sisters in Gaza will, God willing, continue to live on land where they were born forever.”

He emphasized that further violence in Gaza serves no purpose, saying, “No goal can be achieved in Gaza by shedding more blood, killing more children, and leaving people hungry and without medicine.” This comment alluded to Israel’s ongoing blockade of aid to the region.

Erdoğan’s remarks reflect Türkiye’s broader stance on regional conflicts, highlighting the country’s commitment to supporting Palestine while also advocating for peace in South Asia.