Erdogan Denounces Israel as Occupier at Pro-Palestinian Rally

Turkish President Erdogan addressed a large pro-Palestinian rally in Istanbul, criticizing Israel's actions during the recent Israel-Hamas war and calling for the international community to declare Israel a war criminal. Erdogan reiterated his support for Hamas, stating that it is not a terrorist organization and describing Israel as an occupier. Turkey, unlike many NATO allies and the European Union, does not consider Hamas a terrorist organization and has offered to play a role in negotiating the release of hostages abducted by Hamas. Erdogan's speech aimed to reinforce his criticism of Israel and overshadow celebrations marking Turkey's secular republic's centenary.