The Presidency's Head of Communications Fahrettin Altun, addressed a range of topics during his interview with Al Jazeera, including Israeli attacks on Palestine, efforts to combat terrorism, and recent diplomatic engagements.
Addressing the question of Türkiye's support for Palestine, Altun stressed that, in light of the recent occupation and genocidal attempts that began on October 7, Türkiye has been at the forefront among global nations in prioritising this issue.
Altun emphasised that Türkiye is among the countries making the most efforts to provide humanitarian aid, stating, "Türkiye's Palestine policy remains unchanged. Irrespective of location, it is our duty to fulfil the mission bestowed upon us by history. We extend our support to the oppressed, particularly Palestine, without any consideration of their identity, and we boldly denounce the 'oppressor'."
In relation to the ongoing process regarding the request for an advisory opinion from the Court on "Legal Consequences Arising from Israel's Policies and Practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territories" with the UN General Assembly's resolution dated 30 December 2022, the Head of Communications Altun stated that they submitted the written opinion to the Court on July 20, 2023, and reminded that Türkiye made an oral statement on February 26 as part of the oral sessions held in The Hague.
According to the Head of Communications, Altun, the statement emphasises that Israel's unilateral actions and measures to alter the status and nature of the occupied Palestinian territories, including Jerusalem and holy sites like Haram al-Sharif, are a violation of international law and must be unconditionally annulled and reversed. This position was once again documented in the presence of the Court and the international community with the issuance of this statement.
Pointing to Türkiye's and especially President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's principled and humanitarian stance on Palestine, Head of Communications Altun recalled that while Türkiye worked tirelessly to achieve a ceasefire, President Erdoğan brought together the leaders of Hamas and Fatah to promote a cohesive approach among Palestinian actors.
''Every possible effort was made to prevent the massacre''
Stating that the Presidency's Directorate of Communications launched a campaign to combat disinformation in order to combat Israel's fake news right from the beginning, the Head of Communications Altun noted that the Extraordinary Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers was held for the first time on a sectoral basis and that they coordinated the steps to be taken against Israel in this field.
Altun underlined Türkiye's strong objection to the massacres that have taken place in full view of the entire world since October 7, emphasising that Türkiye has mobilised all of its institutions and organisations, as well as humanitarian and diplomatic channels, to put an end to this massacre.
The Head of Communications Altun claimed that Türkiye has addressed the issue at the state level and proposed solutions for the medium and long term, adding that ''Türkiye has taken responsibility by offering the guarantor mechanism without hesitation. Through these initiatives, Türkiye has reminded the international audience once again of Israel's settler colonialist policies as well as the reality of 'State of Palestine', which often go unnoticed.”
''Our nation fully supports the decision to halt trade with Israel''
When asked, ''Did the Turkish public support Türkiye's decisions to restrict trade with Israel?'', Head of Communications Altun replied, ''As of October 7, it is clear where our relations with Israel stand. Long before the massacre in Gaza, Türkiye had ceased shipments of military equipment to Israel. Türkiye, which has halted trade with Israel at this stage, has demonstrated its honesty and sincerity in its statements and support for Palestine.”
Noting that the nation's sensitivity towards Palestine serves as a model for the entire world, Head of Communications Altun said that the decisions to restrict and ultimately halt trade with Israel have received full support from the nation.
Reiterating that Türkiye is the sole country that has imposed restrictions and halted trade with Israel, Head of Communications Altun added:
"As of October 7, 2023, the protracted issue of Israel in the Middle East has surfaced. Rest assured that, as a country, Türkiye is committed to taking all necessary steps to address this issue and support the oppressed Palestinians in a dignified manner. It is important to stay focused on the issue at hand amidst trade discussions. We are glad to see that the Turkish public has expressed its concern for Gaza. High expectations also reflect our sensitivity. In this sense, our government, especially our President, holds the same viewpoint and stance on Gaza as the public."
Highlighting the pressing issue of the Israeli issue and the challenges it has brought about, Head of Communications Altun said, "We need to see that Israel's persecution, which has been going on for years, has now evolved into the total destruction of a nation. Once these realities are acknowledged and understood, it is crucial to take effective and strategic measures to address them."
"There are particular groups in the international arena that engage in orchestrated black propaganda against Türkiye"
Head of Communications Altun emphasised that Türkiye has consistently supported the oppressed Palestinians while striving for regional peace and stability and added that any attempt to distort the issue through trade without taking into account Türkiye's struggle would serve to conceal and obscure Israel's actions.
Head of Communications Altun underscored that history, humanity, and justice will hold Israel accountable for its violations of international and humanitarian law.
Upon the question, "There were widespread speculations about the alleged transfer of Turkish products to the Israeli army. Could you provide more information about this matter?", Head of Communications Altun said:
"There are particular groups in the international arena that engage in orchestrated black propaganda against Türkiye. There is also a group that collaborates to engage in smear campaigns that show little concern for the Israeli problem, aiming to undermine our government and manipulate public opinion. The claim that our products are transferred to the Israeli army is completely false. Our Centre for Combating Disinformation has revealed that the slander campaigns, particularly those utilising outdated videos disseminated on social media platforms, were based on false information. Far be it from shipping supplies to the Israeli army, Türkiye has actually provided almost 50 thousand tonnes of humanitarian aid materials to Gaza thus far."
Head of Communications Altun emphasised that Türkiye, since October 7, has taken the most exemplary and effective stance with its nation and state against Israel's genocide, has demonstrated a principled, assertive, and humane stance on this issue in all aspects, and they will continue to support their Palestinian brothers and sisters in the future, just as they have done to this day.
Head of Communications Altun emphasised that Türkiye will actively pursue, with all of its institutions and organisations, the genocide case brought by South Africa against Israel with the aim of establishing international accountability for Israel's atrocities and securing a conviction for the country.
"President Erdoğan conducts intense diplomacy traffic"
Upon the question, "The visit of Ismail Heniyye to Türkiye and his subsequent meeting with Erdoğan garnered significant international attention. Could you please provide an update on the outcome of this meeting? Will this meeting have any impact on the situation in Gaza?", Head of Communications Altun said, "Prior to this meeting, our President expressed condolences to Mr. Henniye for the tragic loss of his children and grandchildren in the Israeli attacks. I must emphasise that our President stands out as one of the rare leaders who has done this."
Stating that the meeting between President Erdoğan and Henniye transpired in a highly amicable environment, Head of Communications Altun further emphasised that President Erdoğan is among the prominent figures who publicly denounced the Israeli violations in Palestine before the international community.
Emphasising that President Erdoğan has dedicated a considerable amount of time to addressing this matter since October 7, Head of Communications Altun said that during Henniye's meeting with the President, they discussed potential actions that could be taken to achieve a ceasefire .
Underscoring that President Erdoğan has conducted intense diplomatic traffic with the leaders of numerous nations in addition to meeting with Hamas officials, Head of Communications Altun stated the following:
"Putting an end to Israel's attacks on Palestine is a top priority on our President's agenda. As a result, it won't be long before we start witnessing the impact of the negotiations on the current state of affairs in the region. Türkiye is committed to taking strong action under the leadership of our President to put an end to the violence in Palestine and work towards the establishment of a sovereign and independent Palestinian state, based on the 1967 borders, with Al-Quds (East Jerusalem) as its capital. Because there is no alternative for peace to be established in the region."
"Türkiye consistently strives for stability through its actions and proposed solutions"
Upon the question, "President Erdoğan has been actively engaged in fostering relationships with neighbouring countries, emphasising the importance of normalisation. Is the progress of this case affected by the ongoing local elections? What is the expected progress on this matter?", Head of Communications Altun said the recent elections in Türkiye on March 31 were local elections and were unlikely to have an impact on the foreign policy led by President Erdoğan.
Head of Communications Altun stated that the core focus and primary goals of Türkiye's foreign policy are to build a peace zone around it and to cultivate cordial and mutually beneficial relationships with the countries in the region.
Stating that Türkiye's regional vision is well-defined and its proposals are highly specific, Head of Communications Altun said that they define Türkiye as a "stabilizing power".
Head of Communications Altun said, "From reforming the UN to combating terrorism, from addressing the refugee crisis to promoting peace in conflict zones, Türkiye's actions and proposals consistently prioritise stability. Türkiye's use of coercive methods and military cooperation serves a stabilising purpose, rather than a destructive one. The fact that a growing number of actors share this perspective and that normalisation and cooperation are gaining prominence are inextricably linked to this situation."
"Egypt plays a significant role"
When asked if President Erdoğan's visit had led to the normalisation of relations with Egypt, Head of Communications Altun stated that the normalisation process was achieved with Erdoğan's visit to Cairo on February 14, and the two countries' relations have entered a new phase and continued:
"With the Joint Declaration signed during this visit, it was announced that the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSC) between our country and Egypt was restructured to be co-chaired by the Presidents. As a result, the presidents at the highest level confirmed their political will to strengthen bilateral relations in all areas. It was decided to schedule the HLSC meeting during Egyptian President Sisi's visit to Türkiye in the coming months. As emphasised by both parties during the visit of our President, the relations and cooperation between Türkiye and Egypt, two significant actors in the region, are highly significant for the interests of both nations as well as for the stability, peace and calm in the region. The two countries share similar viewpoints on various regional matters. Egypt's role in ensuring stability and security in the region, particularly regarding the Palestinian cause, is of utmost importance. It is crucial that the two countries work together to put an end to Israeli aggression and provide a long-term and equitable solution mechanism in Palestine."
Head of Communications Altun noted that they also exchanged views on regional issues such as Palestine, Libya, Sudan and Somalia, indicating that preparations for the HLSC meeting, which will take place during Egyptian President Sisi's visit to Türkiye in the coming months, are already underway.
"We are actively working towards finalising a set of agreements that could be signed on the sidelines of the HLSC meeting to enhance our relationship on a contractual basis, considering the current requirements. The date of President Sisi's visit to our country will be confirmed once the preparations for the HLSC are finalised," said Head of Communications Altun.
"Türkiye is the country that combats terrorism the most"
When asked, "Türkiye has been fighting against terrorist organisations, especially the PKK, for many years. Will Türkiye resolve this issue in the near future?," Head of Communications Altun replied, "Türkiye has been fighting against the PKK for more than 40 years. However, I can confidently state that we have achieved effective results in terms of neutralising terrorism and terrorist organisations through the strategy of eradicating terrorism at its source, which was announced by our President in 2016 and has been updated and implemented on a regular basis until today. The components of this strategy were our well-defined objectives and our effective methods and instruments."
Stating that the organization has been largely neutralised within Türkiye's borders, Altun said, "We have reached this stage through the progress of our defence industry, our experience in combating terrorism, and the competence and commitment of our security forces."
In response to the question, "What would you say regarding borders and the presence of terrorist organisations in Iraq and Syria? Has Türkiye accomplished its military goals in Iraq and northern Syria? Can you provide any insights into the duration of Türkiye's military presence in these regions?", Altun said, "Unfortunately, regional developments have paved the way for terrorist organisations to increase their activities. In exchange, Türkiye has had to extend its efforts in the fight against terrorism beyond its own borders. Not just the PKK, but over a dozen organisations that collaborate with the PKK, as well as organisations like DAESH, have targeted Türkiye directly and continue to do so. Türkiye has safeguarded its borders as a result of its extended fight against terrorism."
Indicating that Türkiye is fighting against many organisations, specifically the PKK and DAESH, in Iraq and Syria based on the right of self-defense under international law, Head of Communications Altun said:
"Therefore, Türkiye's military presence and activity within the borders of these countries do not constitute a violation of their borders or an interference in their integrity and interests. On the contrary, our presence under international law has significant implications that can assist these countries in maintaining their integrity. In his statements regarding various developments in Iraq and Syria, President Erdoğan emphasised that Türkiye's utmost priority is to safeguard the territorial and institutional integrity of these countries. This commitment reflects our fundamental policy and remains unchanged. If Türkiye had not waged an effective fight against the PKK, its affiliates, and DAESH, these organisations would have had a greater influence in these countries. Speaking of which, I would like to mention that Türkiye is the country that combats terrorism the most, all by itself without relying on coalitions. As long as these organisations continue to pose a threat to Türkiye and its neighbours, we will steadfastly maintain our current attitude. After the 'Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation on the Development Road Project' was signed during our President's visit to Iraq, the Iraqi Prime Minister, Mr. Mohammed Sudani, said, "We agreed on cooperation to ensure stability in Türkiye and Iraq." This statement highlights the growing regional support for Türkiye's efforts in combating terrorism.
Development Road Project
Upon the question, "What is your take on the repercussions of President Erdoğan's visit to Iraq?", Head of Communications Altun said that President Erdoğan visited Iraq for the first time after a gap of 13 years.
Reminding that a total of 26 bilateral legal texts were signed, covering all aspects of relations between the two countries, particularly security/counter-terrorism, trade/economy, transportation, energy, and environment/agriculture, as well as a quadrilateral Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the Development Road Project with the participation of Qatar and the UAE, Head of Communications Altun stated the following:
"Given the current situation, it is important to address the Strategic Framework Agreement, as it outlines the way forward for our relations. It was agreed to form a Joint Planning Group and Joint Standing Committees on various topics concerning bilateral relations. Thus, a strategic step has been taken to ensure that our relations with Iraq have an institutionalised and sustainable structure that will not be hampered by sudden ups and downs and will produce tangible results. We agree with Iraq that these texts will be effectively implemented, and our bilateral relations will be significantly strengthened. The water issue was also among the significant agenda items of the visit. The Joint Standing Committee was already established and held its first meeting in November 2023, with the goal of developing long-term water cooperation with Iraq based on rational and scientific principles. Severe droughts caused by climate change in recent years have had a negative impact on regional countries, including Türkiye. Therefore, the efficient and sustainable use of limited water resources is critical. In this setting, we are prepared to provide substantial support to Iraq by implementing joint projects for the development of water infrastructure and the improvement of water management in Iraq."
Remarking that another important issue was the "Development Road Project," Head of Communications Altun reminded that a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation was signed between Türkiye and Iraq as part of the Development Road Project, and a quadrilateral Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the participation of Qatar and the UAE.
The Head of Communications Altun stated that they once again emphasised the strong support provided to Iraq as part of the strategic initiative, and went on to say,
"With the Quadrilateral Memorandum of Understanding, we have documented our intention to advance the project on the basis of 'regional ownership.' We are encouraging other countries in the region to participate in the project. The Development Road Project, which connects the Persian Gulf to Europe, is a major regional and global initiative. Türkiye plays a role in this project, connecting the East and the West. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani of Iraq stated that the memoranda of understanding signed 'would enhance partnerships and have a positive impact on economic growth.' Aside from the economic benefits of the project, it will make a significant contribution to multilateral global communication among nations."
Stating that the issue of terrorism was also discussed in detail during his visit to Iraq, Head of Communications Altun said, "The presence of the PKK and other terrorist organisations is the most significant impediment to regional development. From this perspective, Baghdad's recent declaration of the PKK as a banned organisation is most pleasing. President Erdoğan has also made it clear that he appreciates this development."
Stating that Türkiye expects the PKK to be officially declared a terrorist organisation and its presence on Iraqi territory to be terminated, as emphasised by President Erdoğan, Head of Communications Altun said: "As long as terrorism persists, the progress of development initiatives and strategic infrastructure projects will remain hindered. We believe that we will achieve this with the cooperation of our Iraqi friends."
Head of Communications Altun stated that Türkiye's efforts leading up to this visit, as well as the legal documents signed during the visit, provide concrete evidence of Türkiye's vision to create a zone of peace around its periphery, its mutually beneficial relationship with its neighbours, and its stabilising role.
Pointing out that Türkiye's resolve in the fight against terrorism was communicated to the Erbil administration during the meetings, Head of Communications Altun remarked that President Erdoğan's visit to Erbil following the Baghdad summit should be viewed in light of same objective and policy.
Stating that President Erdoğan reminded the Regional Government of the necessity of a joint fight against terrorism in order to ensure political and social stability both in Iraq and in the region, Head of Communications Altun said, "Türkiye is ready to take all necessary measures to ensure that a terrorist state is not established on its borders."
"It is crucial to have a policy that reflects the essence of the alliance on the ground."
In response to the question, "US support for these organisations seems to continue. Is there a consensus with Washington on this issue?" Altun said, “It is no secret that we have differing perspectives with the US, particularly on the PKK's presence in Syria and the US's relations with this organisation, which the US is attempting to conceal by changing its name. It is apparent that the organisation in Syria is an extension of the PKK and under its direct control."
Highlighting that the military training and capabilities provided by the US for this extension might be exploited by the PKK terrorist organisation, Head of Communications Altun said:
"President Erdoğan and relevant institutions have frequently issued statements based on concrete data about the nature of this interaction. We have stated both in public and private forums that this situation is unfavourable for the relations between the two NATO allies and has the potential to jeopardise them. Although the US maintains that it is providing this aid to combat DAESH, we have persisted that the policy of backing one terrorist organisation against another cannot serve to fight terrorism and may even destabilise the region. We expect the US, in our capacity as a NATO ally, to pursue a policy that reflects the essence of the alliance on the ground.”
In response to the question, "Recent years have seen tension between Türkiye and a number of Gulf countries. Has Erdoğan's trip to the Gulf put a stop to this tension? From now on, will there be further cooperation with these countries, for example, in the sphere of defence?", Head of Communications Altun replied, "Türkiye highly prioritises its ties with the Gulf region, maintaining them based on mutual respect, common interests and cooperation through both bilateral andmultilateral joint cooperation mechanisms."
Reminding that Türkiye maintains diplomatic relations with all Gulf countries despite some regional issues, Head of Communications Altun said, “Our President's visits to the Gulf region laid the groundwork for rapprochement and cooperation to develop and this case is among our priorities.”
Head of Communications Altun noted that the invitation and ensuing attendance of President Erdoğan's to the Summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council held in Doha on December 5, 2023, showcased the elevated political level of relations and said, "The process of establishing bilateral cooperation mechanisms with Gulf nations is underway. Most recently, the High-Level Strategic Council was formed with the UAE. With Qatar, we have the highly efficient Supreme Strategic Committee. Regarding Saudi Arabia, preparations are underway for the upcoming Turkish-Saudi Coordination Council meeting. Negotiations have been re-initiated for a free trade agreement between Türkiye and the Gulf Cooperation Council."
Head of Communications Altun stated that all these developments indicated that the current momentum in relations continued to grow, recalling that the framework was set during the leader-level meetings and dozens of cooperation agreements were signed in a wide range of areas, from defence industry to communication to tourism to trade and investment.
Head of Communications Altun stated that the subsequent phase involved the de facto implementation of these agreements, which would proceed within the context of mutual opportunities and needs.
"Türkiye's efforts were appreciated on a global scale"
In response to the question, "The Ukraine-Russia war is another issue that closely concerns Türkiye. The Ukraine crisis appears to overshadow relations between Türkiye and Europe. What stance would Türkiye adopt in the event of a NATO intervention in the conflict?", Head of Communications Altun replied:
"In the face of numerous recent crises and challenges on a regional or global scale, Türkiye's approach has always been shaped by a principled stance. What is this principle? It is to offer solutions to regional and global issues on the basis of stability, justice, and equity, or to make the greatest feasible contribution to the pursuit of solutions. Indeed, Türkiye’sprincipled stance has recently been challenged by numerous crises, and, as the whole world can attest, it has manifested itself in concrete ways. In this respect, our President has been among the few heads of state who have been able to maintain contacts with the leaders of both nations and has almost launched a diplomatic mobilisation in search of a solution. In particular, the endeavours undertaken by Türkiye for an immediate ceasefire between the parties have been appreciated on a global scale.
Let me recall that it was Türkiye that brought the parties together at the level of foreign ministers during a very tense period. Likewise, the talks between the delegations of the parties in İstanbul, as well as the efforts of Türkiye and our President regarding the Grain Corridor Agreements, have been priceless and momentous diplomatic achievements for the stability and security of Europe and the whole world. All this proves that the principled stance of the Republic of Türkiye in dealing with such grave crises is an indispensable value not only for the security architecture in Europe but also for global security and stability. In this vein, there is no question of the Ukraine crisis overshadowing the relations between the EU and Türkiye. On the contrary, all indicators suggest that Türkiye is an indispensable ally for the EU countries."
Head of Communications Altun noted that Türkiye, with its mediation and peace diplomacy that always invites the parties to calm down, its capacity to forge close ties with both Russia and Ukraine, and its foreign policy perspective that always maintains open channels of negotiation, has assumed a task perhaps no other actor could ever fulfil in this process. Altun further underlined that Türkiye will continue to observe this delicate balance in the future and do whatever is necessary for peace and stability to prevail in the region.
Head of Communications Altun noted that this delicate, balancing and stabilising role of Türkiye is recognised and respected by NATO allies, friends in Europe and the warring parties in order to prevent the current crises and conflicts from expanding further and affecting the whole world.