Bahçeli Warns Against Divisive Rhetoric: “We Must Protect a Terror-Free Türkiye”

At his party’s group meeting, Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) Chairman Devlet Bahçeli urged restraint in political discourse, warning that inflammatory language could undermine the “Terror-Free Türkiye” process. He cautioned that “no slogans or behaviors that could damage national unity should be tolerated under the roof of Parliament.” Responding sharply to DEM Party Deputy Group Chair Gülistan Kılıç Koçyiğit’s recent remarks describing fallen soldiers as “young corpses,” Bahçeli said, “It is essential to distinguish between enthusiasm and madness and avoid thoughtless expressions that can be interpreted as insults. Calling our martyrs ‘young corpses’ is neither correct nor honorable.” The MHP leader called for all political actors to safeguard Türkiye’s unity, stressing, “We are all the Turkish nation. After crossing the sea, stumbling in the stream benefits no one. We must avoid maximalist demands and irresponsible accusations.”

“The 27 February Statement Is Fundamental”

In a notable remark, Bahçeli referred to PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan as a “founding leader,” adding that “the statement of February 27 is fundamental for us.” His reference drew attention across political circles, signaling that the MHP views certain past national security frameworks as still relevant to the peace process. While Bahçeli did not elaborate, his words implied that Türkiye’s fight against terrorism should be rooted in state continuity and national consensus, not partisan rivalry.

Military Hospitals: “Closing Them Was a Mistake”

Bahçeli also drew focus to defense infrastructure, calling the closure of Türkiye’s military hospitals a misstep. “It was a mistake to shut down military hospitals, but reopening them will be a virtue,” he said. Emphasizing MHP’s commitment to supporting the armed forces, Bahçeli announced that the party will “do everything possible to ensure that these hospitals are reactivated.” His comments align with growing calls from security experts who argue that military-specific medical institutions are essential to operational readiness and national defense.

Harsh Words for CHP Leader Özgür Özel

Turning his attention to the opposition, Bahçeli launched a scathing critique against CHP Chairman Özgür Özel over his remarks in Brussels. Bahçeli accused Özel of attacking Türkiye and the presidency abroad, saying, “Mr. Özgür’s path is not the right one, and the politics he practices are not moral politics. Targeting Türkiye and our Presidential Cabinet in every foreign visit is the delusion of a collaborationist politician longing for a mandate system.”
He went on to condemn Özel’s claim that the Turkish government was “working for Trump,” calling it “a disgraceful and immoral example of degenerate politics.” In Bahçeli’s words: “Shame on him, and shame on those who stand with him.” The fiery tone underscored the deepening polarization between Türkiye’s ruling alliance and the main opposition, especially as both sides sharpen rhetoric ahead of upcoming political cycles.

Warning to Israel: “May God Deal with You as You Deserve”

On international affairs, Bahçeli addressed the recent Gaza ceasefire agreement, expressing skepticism about Israel’s commitment to peace. In an emotionally charged statement directed at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he declared, “Hey genocidal Zionist barbar, may God deal with you as He sees fit!” Bahçeli added, “The real issue is the implementation of the agreement on the ground and whether both parties remain loyal to their signatures.”
He stressed that “as long as the State of Palestine is not formally established, celebrating minor tactical gains is nothing but a futile illusion.” His comments aligned with Ankara’s broader position that only a two-state solution based on international legitimacy can bring lasting peace to the Middle East.

“The Divide Between Turks and Kurds Is Fueled by Enemies”

Bahçeli’s address also touched on social cohesion and national identity. “The divide between Turks and Kurds is fueled by an alliance of internal and external enemies,” he stated. Emphasizing unity as a moral and political duty, Bahçeli said, “Our goal in the Century of Türkiye is to resolve endless conflicts through consensus. This is an ethical and national objective.” He underscored that ideological manipulation and prejudice have long been used to fragment society, urging all political forces to “resist ideological provocations and stand firm against division.”
According to Bahçeli, it is possible to overcome entrenched tensions through cultural understanding and shared national purpose. “Delivering the Turkish nation from the fire line of sectarian and ethnic polarization is our primary responsibility,” he said, positioning the MHP as both a guardian of unity and a moral compass amid turbulent political discourse.

A Message of Caution and Continuity

Bahçeli’s speech reinforced his long-standing narrative of national integrity, moral discipline, and political restraint, themes that resonate deeply with MHP’s nationalist base. His dual focus on internal unity and external vigilance—from protecting the “Terror-Free Türkiye” initiative to reinstating military institutions—illustrates the party’s enduring emphasis on state resilience and ideological clarity.
As tensions rise in Parliament and the region alike, Bahçeli’s warning was clear: Türkiye’s unity and stability must not be compromised by reckless speech, divisive politics, or ideological opportunism.