Fidan: We Must Act Against Israel’s Expansionism

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, in an interview with Egypt’s MBC television channel, referred to recent developments in the Middle East and Israel’s ongoing attacks on Gaza, stressing: “Israel has transformed its policy of regional expansionism into a strategy that goes beyond the Palestinian issue, and this poses a serious threat to the entire region.”

He added: “As regional countries and as the international community, we must discuss this trend and take the necessary preventive measures. This matter is of vital importance.”

Criticizing Tel Aviv’s approach, Fidan said: “Israel considers a regional vision based on development, prosperity, and equal power as a threat to itself.”

U.S.–Israel Relations

The Turkish foreign minister also touched on Washington–Tel Aviv relations, stating: “Recent events have shown that the United States does not, in fact, have as much influence over Israel’s policies as was previously assumed; perhaps the opposite is true.”

Regional Cooperation

Regarding Turkey’s relations with Egypt and Saudi Arabia, Fidan said: “Ankara has expanded its political and commercial relations with Cairo and Riyadh. Current threats are pushing us toward greater cooperation on security issues, and especially in the defense industry we must engage in broader collaboration.”

Syria and Israeli Threats

Referring to developments in Syria, he warned: “The greatest threat to Syria’s stability is a possible Israeli military operation. Israel has already revealed its intentions in this regard. If it opens the path to instability in Syria, it will pave the way for its expansionist policies.”

Unity of Islamic and Arab Countries

In response to a question about the possibility of establishing a joint security structure among Arab and Islamic countries, Fidan said: “This is possible. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League already have well-established structures, which can serve as a basis for moving toward a more integrated political system.”

He emphasized: “If others have been able to achieve this, we can too. Our generation is capable of realizing this goal, and I am pleased to see that regional leaders also believe in this vision. Our President strongly supports this approach, and I hope to witness its realization within my lifetime. All my efforts are focused on this objective.”