Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a phone call with U.S. President Donald J. Trump on Monday, focusing on regional crises in Gaza and Syria, as well as strengthening Türkiye-U.S. cooperation, according to a statement from the Turkish Presidency.

The leaders discussed expanding collaboration in the defense industry and other strategic sectors, with Erdoğan expressing Türkiye’s eagerness to deepen ties with the United States. He praised Trump’s previous diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions with Iran and address the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Erdoğan raised alarm over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing it as “grave” and urging immediate, uninterrupted aid deliveries to Palestinians. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s support for ceasefire initiatives and long-term peace in the region.

On Syria, Erdoğan welcomed U.S. steps to ease sanctions, noting that such measures would bolster Syria’s territorial integrity and regional stability. He emphasized that a stable Syria would contribute to global peace.

The call concluded with Erdoğan inviting Trump to visit Türkiye, signaling a desire to further strengthen bilateral relations. (ILKHA)