Erdoğan Hails Turkey’s Firefighting Capacity, Slams Critics, and Addresses Gaza Crisis

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared that Turkey has become a global model in wildfire response, crediting the country’s expanded firefighting fleet and coordinated emergency efforts. Speaking after a cabinet meeting held in Ahlat on the 954th anniversary of the Battle of Manzikert, Erdoğan also touched on the economy, the war in Gaza, diaspora Turks, and new infrastructure projects.

“Turkey Is a Country Pointed Out Worldwide”

Referring to this summer’s record number of wildfires, Erdoğan said Turkey now possesses the largest and most advanced firefighting fleet in its history:

“Turkey has 27 airplanes, 105 helicopters, and nearly 6,000 land vehicles. Despite the propaganda of chronic opposition groups who exploit disasters for political gain, Turkey is now a country pointed out worldwide in wildfire response.”

The president noted that of the 5,473 fires recorded this year, 4,195 occurred since June 1, with 96% caused by human activity such as discarded cigarettes, campfires, or negligence.

Erdoğan stressed that Turkey performs better than most countries in its climate zone when measuring the ratio of burned forest land to total forest area. He added:

“We are also highly successful in reforestation. Turkey ranks first in Europe and fourth in the world in tree planting.”

Gaza Hospital Attack Condemned

Turning to foreign policy, Erdoğan condemned Israel’s attack on a hospital in Gaza that killed at least 20 people, including five journalists.

“The Netanyahu government continues its brutal assault, destroying everything that represents humanity. We discussed additional steps Turkey will take to stop the massacre, increase aid to Gaza, and mobilize the international community.”

Economy: “Opposition Failed to Sabotage Us”

Erdoğan defended his government’s economic program, claiming it has withstood “stress tests” despite opposition attempts to undermine stability.

“Their boycott calls against national brands failed. Their trips abroad to complain about Turkey brought them back empty-handed. In the end, it was not our country but those who slandered Turkey who lost.”

He cited record Central Bank reserves at $176.5 billion, an ongoing fall in inflation for 14 consecutive months, rising exports ($25 billion in July), strong industrial production, and unemployment holding at 8.6% for 26 months.

Infrastructure: Zangezur Corridor and Rail Expansion

Highlighting transport projects, Erdoğan announced the start of construction on the Kars-Iğdır-Aralık-Dilucu Railway Line, part of the Zangezur Corridor linking Turkey, Azerbaijan, and potentially Armenia.

The $2.4 billion project will handle 5.5 million passengers and 15 million tons of cargo annually, forming part of the trade route from China to the UK.

Erdoğan also reiterated his rail expansion goals:

• 17,500 km by 2028

• 28,600 km by 2053

Farmers and Insurance

On agriculture, Erdoğan urged farmers to enroll in TARSİM crop insurance, revealing that ₺23 billion in claims have been recorded after frost damage this spring. He said ₺7 billion has already been paid, with the remaining ₺16 billion due by November.

Diaspora Turks: “Not a Punching Bag”

Addressing recent derogatory remarks directed at Turkish expatriates, Erdoğan defended the 7 million Turks living abroad:

“Our brothers abroad are not a punching bag for reckless opposition actors. They are an essential part of our nation. Their contributions to tourism and the economy are undeniable, and we will never allow them to be marginalized.”