Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned Israel’s launch of a ground offensive in Gaza City, describing it as a dangerous new stage in what it called the Netanyahu government’s “genocidal plans” against the Palestinian people.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, the ministry warned that the assault on Gaza City — where over one million Palestinians have sought refuge — would escalate the massacres, force the mass displacement of civilians once again, and deepen the already dire humanitarian catastrophe in the besieged enclave.

“The launch of a ground offensive by Israel in Gaza City marks a new phase in the Netanyahu government’s genocidal plans,” the statement declared. “This offensive, targeting one of the last remaining shelters for the people of Gaza, will displace hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and further deepen their suffering.”

The ministry criticized the timing of the attack, which coincides with international efforts to secure a ceasefire agreement, a hostage-prisoner exchange, and the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. “This offensive once again demonstrates that Israel does not seek a ceasefire,” it said, accusing Tel Aviv of deliberately undermining peace efforts.

Ankara called on the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, to act immediately to halt the assault and enforce a ceasefire. “It is essential that the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, fulfill its responsibilities to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza,” the statement urged.

The Foreign Ministry reaffirmed that Türkiye will continue to work with like-minded countries committed to international law and justice. “Türkiye will continue its cooperation with countries that uphold international law,” it said, signaling that Ankara would intensify its diplomatic efforts to stop the bloodshed.

This latest statement comes amid mounting outrage across Türkiye and the wider Muslim world over the escalating Israeli campaign in Gaza, which has already killed tens of thousands of Palestinians, destroyed entire neighborhoods, and left the Strip on the brink of famine. (ILKHA)