Ankara, The Europe Today – August 5, 2025: President of the Republic of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, on Monday held a telephone conversation with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during which he congratulated the UK leader for his recent statements in support of the recognition of the State of Palestine.
According to a statement from the Turkish Communications Directorate, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations between Türkiye and the United Kingdom, along with pressing regional and global developments, with particular emphasis on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
President Erdoğan stressed that the situation in Gaza has reached a critical and inhumane stage, and emphasized that the international community must go beyond rhetorical concern. He reiterated the need to urgently compel Israel to agree to a ceasefire and to pursue a two-state solution as the only path toward lasting peace.
He further highlighted Türkiye’s continuous efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza, as well as its support for mediation efforts and ceasefire negotiations in coordination with international partners.
In a parallel statement from 10 Downing Street, the UK Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that both leaders discussed the “appalling” humanitarian situation in Gaza, agreeing on the urgent necessity for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages, and the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Prime Minister Starmer shared the UK’s plans to take additional actions to accelerate the delivery of humanitarian assistance and detailed ongoing efforts with international allies to develop a comprehensive and durable peace strategy.
He reiterated the UK government’s long-standing position that the only foundation for a just and lasting peace is the establishment of a viable and sovereign Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel.
Significantly, Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s intention to recognize the State of Palestine before the United Nations General Assembly in September, unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the crisis in Gaza and makes tangible commitments toward a lasting peace.
The leaders also touched on Iran, with Starmer affirming that a diplomatic solution remains the only effective way to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and expressing appreciation for Türkiye’s constructive role in hosting recent talks aimed at de-escalating tensions.
On defense and trade, the leaders welcomed the recent momentum toward the export of UK-built Typhoon fighter jets to Türkiye, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding by both countries’ defense ministers in Istanbul last month. They expressed optimism about the finalization of the deal, which marks a significant step in strengthening defense cooperation between the two NATO allies.
Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact and continue consultations on key regional developments and joint initiatives.
