ANKARA 

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, calling him the primary "culprit behind genocide in Gaza."

Fidan accused Netanyahu of perpetuating violence in Gaza to maintain political power. "Netanyahu continues to spread death and terror to stay in power," Fidan told a news conference in the capital Skopje following a meeting with Timco Mucunski, North Macedonia’s foreign minister.

Fidan condemned Israel's ongoing military actions and highlighted the growing attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank, as well as provocations at Jersusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque, which he claimed are exacerbating the crisis.

The Turkish foreign minister also claimed that Netanyahu is undermining cease-fire efforts by imposing new conditions and obstructing negotiations.

He called on the international community to act against Netanyahu, asserting: "Remaining silent on the (Gaza) massacre is tantamount to being complicit in the crime."

Ties with North Macedonia

During the news conference, underscoring the importance of resolving political issues in the Balkans through peace and dialogue, Fidan highlighted these problems’ historical roots.

Fidan also stressed that Türkiye remains committed to helping resolve regional conflicts through peaceful means and dialogue.

"We have only one path: to do everything we can to resolve these problems through peace and dialogue," Fidan said, referring to the historical challenges faced by the Balkans.

During the talks, Fidan congratulated North Macedonia on its newly formed government and reiterated Türkiye’s readiness to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in the economic and military sectors.

He also noted Türkiye’s intention to boost the trade volume between the two nations to $2 billion and discussed ways to enhance cooperation through the establishment of a high-level strategic cooperation council.

Fidan also commented on the critical role of Turkish companies in North Macedonia’s development efforts, especially under the new administration. He expressed confidence that Turkish investments would continue to grow, particularly in sectors like energy and defense.

Fidan also acknowledged the significance of the Turkish community in North Macedonia as a bridge between the two nations.

He stressed the importance of preserving the legal rights of Turkish citizens in the country and praised the government's commitment to supporting Turkish cultural and historical heritage.

Addressing regional concerns, Fidan highlighted Türkiye's active role in fostering stability and cooperation in the Balkans, noting that Türkiye supports peace initiatives like the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue and broader international efforts aimed at ensuring regional stability.

Fidan’s visit follows his attendance at the South-East European Cooperation Process Summit in June, where he met with Gordana Siljanovska Davkova, North Macedonia’s president.

Ongoing cooperation between the two countries, Fidan asserted, is crucial for maintaining peace and security in the Balkans.

"Türkiye will continue to stand by the Balkans, striving for peace and collaboration, while preserving the region’s cultural diversity," he said.

Also during this visit to Skopje, Fidan met with North Macedonia’s Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski and Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi, said the Turkish Foreign Ministry.