Erdoğan's Hamas remarks: 'I do not view them as a terrorist organization'

In an interview given in New York, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated once again that he does not view Hamas as a terrorist organization and emphasized that the suffering of the Palestinian people should not be ignored.

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Erdoğan's Hamas remarks: 'I do not view them as a terrorist organization'

AKP Chairman and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who is in New York for the 79th United Nations (UN) General Assembly, gave an exclusive interview to the American channel NBC News.

Responding to questions from Keir Simmons, Erdoğan made significant statements, particularly regarding Hamas and Ukraine's NATO membership.

'I HAVE NOT CALLED HAMAS A TERRORIST ORGANIZATION'

Answering a question about Turkey's relationship with Hamas during the interview, Erdoğan emphasized that he has never characterized Hamas as a terrorist organization. Erdoğan stated that Hamas is a resistance group trying to defend its lands and used the following expressions:

"We are against terrorists. However, I am one of the leaders who knows Hamas well. I have never called Hamas a terrorist organization. And even now, I do not view Hamas as a terrorist organization. Because Hamas is a resistance group that is making an effort to protect its lands. Therefore, how could I call such a resistance group a terrorist organization?"

OCTOBER 7 EVENTS

Regarding the events of October 7, Erdoğan pointed out that the suffering experienced by the Palestinian people prior to that date should not be ignored, stating:

"Since 1947, Palestine has reached this point by losing its lands. When we examine what is behind the scenes, unfortunately, one must know well the reasons that prepared the conditions for October 7."

CAUTIOUS ON UKRAINE'S NATO MEMBERSHIP

In response to a question about Ukraine's NATO membership, Erdoğan said that they would make a decision by considering the steps taken by all NATO countries. Erdoğan emphasized that the United States, in particular, does not want Ukraine to be a member of NATO, and stated that this issue should not be handled hastily, saying, "America does not want Ukraine to be a member of NATO. Many NATO countries also do not want Ukraine to be a member of NATO. We must make our decision by seeing these realities."

Erdoğan stated that NATO decisions are not matters to be taken with excitement and that Turkey is evaluating the stance of all allies on this issue, adding, "These are not matters to be acted upon with excitement. As of now, we will make our final decision by following the stance of all NATO countries."

To Simmons' question, "Have you made a decision on this?", Erdoğan gave a clear "No" response.

News Source: 12punto