Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan voiced sharp criticism against the United States and Europe on Sunday (May 12), accusing them of failing to exert sufficient pressure on Israel to implement a ceasefire in Gaza. Erdogan's remarks came during a discussion with religious leaders in Istanbul, as reported by Reuters.

According to Erdogan, Israel's refusal to halt the ongoing conflict in Gaza, despite Hamas showing a willingness to compromise and respond positively to ceasefire agreements, has led to the prolonged suffering of civilians. He condemned Israel's attacks on innocent people in Rafah, emphasizing the human toll of the violence.

Erdogan expressed dismay at the lack of significant action from Western nations in response to Israel's actions. He argued that the US and Europe were providing unwavering support to Tel Aviv, neglecting to hold Israel accountable for its actions and enforce a ceasefire to end the bloodshed.

The Turkish president's criticism underscores growing international concern over the situation in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Erdogan has previously accused Israel of genocide and taken steps to sever commercial relations with the country. Additionally, Turkey has participated in legal action against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the conflict.

Erdogan's remarks highlight the urgent need for concerted international efforts to address the crisis in Gaza and work towards a lasting peace in the region.