Türkiye has issued a sharp rebuke of Israel following an alleged attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian-led aid initiative carrying activists from 40 countries intended to challenge the blockade on Gaza.

In a strongly worded statement posted on X, Burhanettin Duran, Head of Communications of the Republic of Türkiye, described the incident as an "act of barbarity and depravity" by the Israeli government.

"The attack carried out by Israel in international waters against the Global Sumud Flotilla... is contrary to humanitarian values, universal principles, and international law and can never be accepted," Duran said. He added that intervening against human rights defenders and targeting defenseless civilians constitutes "a direct attack on the conscience of humanity."

Duran emphasized that the flotilla represented a civilian effort by international activists and called on the global community — particularly nations with citizens aboard the vessels — to ensure the safety of those involved and hold those responsible accountable under international law.

"Our relevant institutions continue all necessary efforts with utmost care to ensure the safe return of our citizens and the citizens of other countries aboard the flotilla," the statement read.

Türkiye vowed to maintain its firm stance against what it described as "oppression, piracy, and illegality." "As Türkiye, under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, we will continue with determination to stand against this oppression, piracy, and illegality; to be the voice of the oppressed; and to defend the rightful cause of our Palestinian sisters and brothers on every platform," Duran concluded.

The statement comes amid heightened tensions in the region. Turkish authorities have not yet released further details on the status of Turkish citizens reportedly participating in the flotilla or the exact circumstances of the reported incident. This latest development underscores Türkiye's continued vocal support for the Palestinian cause and its criticism of Israeli policies toward Gaza. (ILKHA)