Turkish President Delivers Speech at IDEF 2025 Defense Exhibition
At the opening ceremony of the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) in Istanbul, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a speech yesterday. The event was attended by military officials and representatives of defense companies from 44 countries.
Response to the Gaza Crisis
In his speech, Erdoğan addressed the situation in Gaza and condemned Israel’s actions. He emphasized that the international community must respond to this issue and criticized the blocking of humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling it a violation of human rights. The Turkish President stated:
“We are witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza that has shaken the global conscience. The images of innocent children trapped under rubble or dying of starvation are unbearable for any person of conscience. This is no longer a matter of self-defense; we are facing an organized massacre.”
He added:
“Preventing humanitarian aid, even from international organizations like the Red Cross, is a blatant violation of international law. The world cannot remain silent in the face of this tragedy. Turkey has sought from the beginning to be the voice of the oppressed Palestinians. We continue our humanitarian aid and are using all diplomatic channels to stop this disaster.”
Erdoğan concluded by warning of the international community’s responsibility:
“History will never forget the silence of the international community in the face of these atrocities. It is time for all countries to take responsibility for this humanitarian catastrophe.”
Achievements in Turkey’s Defense Industry
In another part of his speech, Erdoğan highlighted Turkey’s advancements in the defense industry, announcing that the domestic production rate in the sector has exceeded 80%. According to the provided data, Turkey’s defense industry exports reached $7.154 billion last year, marking a 29% increase.
International Companies and Protests
This year’s exhibition saw significant participation from international companies, including military equipment manufacturers collaborating with Israel. This has sparked protests from human rights groups and pro-Palestinian organizations, with some calling for a boycott of the relevant stands.
Security Measures
Local authorities in Istanbul implemented special security measures for the event, including restricted access to nearby metro stations. The IDEF 2025 exhibition will continue for six days, with major defense industry contracts expected to be signed during the event.
