Erdogan Renews Harsh Criticism of Israel, Citing 'Zionist Mentality'

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has once again issued strong condemnations against Israel, stating his intention to "strip the mask off the occupying Zionist mentality." In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on September 26, 2026, he declared, "No matter what they do, we will not back down." This statement followed a speech he delivered earlier that day in Istanbul at the 29th International Business Forum.

During his forum address, Erdogan asserted that the "global system has reached a dead end," with conflicts now being resolved through "missiles and drones" rather than negotiations. He reiterated accusations he made days earlier at the UN General Assembly, referring to those responsible for alleged "genocide" and tens of thousands of deaths in Gaza and Lebanon as "criminals." He stated that he and Turkey "openly said what we believe is right" to these individuals.

Erdogan specifically addressed the International Criminal Court's arrest warrants, declaring that those facing them should be in court, not at the UN podium, to answer for their actions. He warned that if those responsible for civilian deaths in Gaza are not brought to justice, "the same cruelty will be repeated." This speech echoed his remarks at the UN General Assembly on September 22, where he called Gaza "the most inhumane and shameful concentration camp of our time," accused Israel of "state terror," and urged international pressure.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz responded sharply to Erdogan's remarks, labeling them "anti-Semitic and inciting" in a Turkish-language post. Katz reminded Erdogan of Turkey's support for Hamas and referred to him as a "paper sultan." He accused Erdogan of embracing and funding Hamas while Israel defends itself, mocked his aspirations for Ottoman Empire influence, and criticized his inaction regarding Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia. Katz concluded by advising Erdogan to cease engaging with Israel, emphasizing Israel's strength and ability to defend itself.