Erdogan: Israel is cause of current war in region

Pars Today — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in an interview with Al Jazeera, described Israel as the main cause and initiator of the current war in the region.

According to Pars Today, citing IRIB, Erdogan referred to the “Mecca” defense agreement between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, saying the agreement is not limited to the three countries and that Egypt and other countries can join if they wish.

Erdogan also identified Israel as the main party responsible for starting the current war in the region and reaffirmed Turkey’s continued support for Syria.

Regarding the war involving Iran, the Turkish president said Ankara is “absolutely” opposed to war in the region and supports peace.

At the same time, he stressed that Israel has been the main driver and principal actor behind the war, adding that Tel Aviv has consistently encouraged the option of war—something he said has imposed heavy costs on countries across the region.