Türkiye will continue supporting people in need around the world, particularly in Gaza, and providing hope to those affected by conflict and hardship, the nation’s president has said.
In a message marking World Humanitarian Day on Wednesday, Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Türkiye remains a leading provider of humanitarian assistance, stressing that its approach is rooted in the country’s history and long-standing civilisational values.
“Today is World Humanitarian Day… Drawing strength from our history and the values of our ancient civilisation, we continue to set an example for everyone on this issue, which transcends politics, and to remain the country that provides the most humanitarian aid in the world relative to its national income,” Erdogan said on Turkish social media platform NSosyal.
He said the fact that more than 300 million people lack basic necessities and struggle to survive amid severe hardships should serve as a call for the international community to take responsibility.
‘We will continue to stand with people in need’
“Helping the oppressed, orphans, the helpless and those in need, and being there for those who have no one is a command of our religion,” Erdogan said.
“Türkiye will continue to extend its hand of compassion wherever there is someone in need. We will continue to stand with people in need in many parts of the world, especially Gaza, and to be a source of hope for the oppressed and victims.”
His remarks come as Gaza continues to endure the devastating humanitarian consequences of Israel’s war on the blockaded enclave.
The death toll from Israel’s genocide in Gaza since October 2023 has risen to 73,407, with 174,335 others wounded, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Wednesday.
According to the ministry, 1,273 Palestinians have been killed and 4,223 others wounded in Israeli violations since the ceasefire took effect.
Beyond the human toll, the Israeli campaign has caused widespread destruction, damaging about 90 percent of Gaza’s civilian infrastructure, while the UN has estimated reconstruction costs at around $70 billion.
