Israel Defense Minister Slams Erdogan for Hamas Support and Regional Inaction

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has sharply criticized Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, accusing him of supporting and financing Hamas while simultaneously condemning Israel's actions against the terror group. Katz's remarks came in response to Erdogan's speech at the UN General Assembly, where the Turkish leader accused Israel of committing atrocities against the residents of Gaza, calling it "the most inhumane concentration camp of our time" and a "children's cemetery."

Katz dismissed Erdogan's rhetoric as that of a "sultan on paper," suggesting the Turkish president's public pronouncements about restoring Ottoman influence do not align with his actual actions. The defense minister pointed to Turkey's perceived inaction regarding regional security threats, noting Erdogan's alleged failure to respond to Iranian missile attacks on Turkish territory. Katz also referenced a defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, stating that Erdogan failed to uphold his commitments after Houthi rebels launched rockets toward Mecca.

"The State of Israel is strong and knows how to take care of itself, we are not helpless," Katz declared, urging the Turkish president to cease interfering in Israeli affairs. Erdogan's UN address also included accusations of Israel pursuing a "murderous" policy in Gaza, which Katz rejected, linking Erdogan's stance to his alleged support for Hamas.

This exchange follows previous reports indicating Turkey's attempts to open a new front against Israel.