Erdoğan emphasises Turkey’s experience and support for Saudi Arabia following Houthi attacks
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has spoken out regarding the attacks launched by Iranian-backed Houthi forces in Yemen against Saudi Arabia, highlighting Turkey' s experienced statesmanship and its support for regional defence initiatives.
These statements were made to journalists at the Türkevi in New York, where Erdoğan was attending the 81st UN General Assembly. Erdoğan characterised Saudi Arabia as an ally within the so-called " Mecca Alliance," referring to the " Mecca Defence Agreement" as a " strong step in the right direction." These comments clearly place Turkey within the regional security debate and underline the nation' s perspective on the challenges facing the Middle East, as well as its ongoing partnerships with key stakeholders in the Gulf region.
Addressing Turkey' s view on regional security, the Turkish president acknowledged the complexity of the area, stating that " it is not surprising to face challenges when undertaking such an important initiative in such a difficult geographical area." He added that " if you propose something new, or put forward a new will, there will naturally be those who feel disturbed by it." This reflects an understanding of the geopolitical tensions and resistance that can arise against new regional agreements.
Erdoğan' s message is aimed at both regional actors and an international audience, signalling Turkey' s willingness to engage in regional security solutions, even when faced with opposition. The statements also underscore Ankara' s strategic depth and diplomatic experience in a region marked by long-standing conflicts and rivalries.
Furthermore, Erdoğan emphasised Turkey' s historical perspective and capacity for managing provocations.
He declared: " We are not a state that was established yesterday; we are a state experienced enough not to allow ourselves to be provoked or to fall into a trap." This statement conveys a message of national strength, resilience, and self-confidence in the face of external pressure and security challenges.
Erdoğan' s comments in New York, during the UN General Assembly, provide insight into Turkey' s foreign policy priorities and the country' s position regarding the ongoing conflict in Yemen and broader regional security issues.
By supporting Saudi Arabia and the Mecca Defence Agreement, Turkey is signalling its role as a stabilising force and a partner for security within a volatile Middle East.
Source: Star
