Erdoğan Likens Netanyahu to Hitler, Accuses Israel of Fueling Regional Instability
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President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan sharply escalated his rhetoric against Israel, comparing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Adolf Hitler and accusing Israel of deliberately fueling regional tensions. He warned that the ongoing war risks spreading further across the Middle East, while stressing that Türkiye’s priority remains economic stability and insulation from conflict.
Erdoğan: Israel Is “Feeding on Tension”
Speaking after a Cabinet meeting in Ankara, Erdoğan said Israel is actively undermining peace efforts through its actions in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria.
“By keeping Al-Aqsa Mosque closed, introducing the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners, and carrying out attacks in Lebanon and Syria, Israel confirms that it is a country that feeds on tension,” Erdoğan said.
He accused the Israeli government of obstructing diplomatic initiatives aimed at ending the war.
Netanyahu Compared to Hitler
In one of his strongest statements, Erdoğan directly compared Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Nazi Germany’s Adolf Hitler.
“Those who follow Hitler’s path today are acting not only against humanity but also against their own people,” Erdoğan said, referring to Netanyahu’s leadership.
He called on the international community to intervene and halt what he described as a dangerous trajectory in the region.
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Warning of Wider War
Erdoğan warned that the conflict, now in its 38th day, could expand beyond its current scope.
“If there is even the slightest chance to silence the guns and open space for negotiations, we are making a sincere effort to seize it,” he said.
Describing the war as “unlawful, meaningless and illegitimate,” Erdoğan stressed that prolonging the conflict could trigger broader regional instability.
He added that those extending the war for political survival should remember that “the tide can turn.”
Türkiye Focused on Stability and Economy
Despite rising geopolitical risks, Erdoğan emphasized that Türkiye remains focused on protecting its domestic stability and economy.
“Our government is in control of its agenda; no one can impose an agenda on us,” he said, rejecting speculation about early elections.
“Our sole priority is to keep our country away from the fire in our region and improve the livelihood of our nation.”
Türkiye Seen as “Safe Haven”
Erdoğan also highlighted Türkiye’s economic positioning amid global uncertainty, saying the country is increasingly viewed by international investors as a “safe haven” and an “island of stability.”
He pointed to ongoing policies aimed at:
- Diversifying energy sources
- Strengthening supply chains
- Supporting key sectors such as tourism and exports
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Call for International Action
Reiterating Ankara’s diplomatic stance, Erdoğan urged stronger global action against policies that prolong conflict.
“As Türkiye, we will continue to raise our voice for peace,” he said.
He warned that continued escalation could deepen instability across the Middle East and have broader global consequences.
