Turkish President and Chairman of the Justice and Development (AK) Party, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, emphasized Türkiye’s growing regional influence, its diplomatic role in managing the recent Iran crisis, and ongoing efforts toward a “terror-free Türkiye” during a speech delivered at the party’s parliamentary group meeting in Ankara.

Addressing lawmakers, Erdoğan said the distinction between the vision of the ruling alliance and its political rivals was becoming increasingly apparent both in domestic and foreign policy. He stressed that the government would continue serving all citizens regardless of their political views or backgrounds while pursuing policies aimed at strengthening national unity and democratic governance.

The president argued that Türkiye has achieved an unprecedented level of influence and prestige on the international stage, describing the country as one of the states best positioned to understand and respond to changes in the global political system.

“Today, Türkiye has gained an unprecedented level of influence and prestige in its region and the world,” Erdoğan said, adding that Ankara has successfully managed regional and international challenges through what he described as rational and balanced policies.

A significant portion of Erdoğan’s speech focused on the recent tensions involving Iran and broader regional security concerns. He stated that Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts and cautious approach had helped shield the country from the fallout of one of the most dangerous regional crises in recent years.

According to Erdoğan, Türkiye pursued a strategy based on “common sense, prudence, and fairness,” which enabled it to avoid being drawn into escalating tensions while safeguarding national interests.

The president said Turkish institutions, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and security agencies, played an active role in supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions. He noted that Ankara contributed through direct engagement, back-channel diplomacy, and mediation efforts designed to prevent further escalation.

Erdoğan also reiterated his criticism of Israeli policies, accusing Israel of undermining efforts to achieve stability and peace in the Middle East. He argued that recent developments demonstrated the importance of continued diplomatic engagement to prevent wider regional conflict.

Despite ongoing challenges, Erdoğan expressed optimism that peace and stability could eventually prevail in the region. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving the Iran crisis and reducing tensions across the Middle East.

“As Türkiye, we will not hesitate to do whatever is necessary to seize even the smallest chance for peace,” Erdoğan said, pledging continued support for efforts to achieve a lasting settlement.

The president also addressed the government’s “terror-free Türkiye” initiative, describing it as a long-term national objective that has successfully overcome numerous challenges over the past two decades.

Erdoğan stated that developments in northern Syria have removed one of the major obstacles to the process, crediting the inclusive policies of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa for facilitating progress. He noted that integration efforts in the region were advancing despite ongoing difficulties and that Türkiye was closely monitoring developments.

He emphasized that terrorism remains one of the greatest barriers to economic growth, democratic progress, investment, and social development, arguing that eliminating the threat would unlock new opportunities across multiple sectors, including tourism, agriculture, employment, and security.

Looking ahead, Erdoğan announced that the government is preparing a new legal framework intended to accelerate the dismantling of terrorist structures and advance the broader peace and security agenda.

He said consultations on the proposed legislation are nearing completion and that the draft will soon be submitted to the Turkish Parliament for consideration.

Erdoğan expressed confidence that the issue could be resolved while preserving the fundamental principles of the Turkish state and the values of the nation. He added that cooperation within the governing People’s Alliance and support from Parliament would be crucial in completing what he described as a historic process.

The speech underscored Ankara’s continued focus on regional diplomacy, domestic security reforms, and efforts to strengthen Türkiye’s position as a key actor in addressing conflicts and challenges across the Middle East. (ILKHA)