“To our steadfast and resilient Palestinian people,
Over the past period, the government authorities in the Gaza Strip have taken a series of practical steps and repeatedly announced, with complete clarity, their full readiness to hand over the responsibility of governance to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza. Today, we are not merely reaffirming this position and our principled commitment; we are translating it into concrete actions on the ground by taking new, decisive strategic steps that practically pave the way for fulfilling this national responsibility.
In affirmation of this sincere national commitment, and in a new governmental step reflecting absolute seriousness and a firm determination to ensure the successful reorganization of the Palestinian internal front and the transfer of governance in the Gaza Strip to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, as well as in response to the supreme interests of our Palestinian people and in an effort to alleviate the immense suffering caused by the ongoing genocide, the delay in reconstruction, the continued siege and closure of the crossings, and the Israeli occupation’s continued refusal to withdraw from the Gaza Strip, we announce the following:
All administrative and legal preparations for the transfer of the governmental system in the Gaza Strip have been fully completed. These arrangements have been formally and transparently presented to the national team representing the Palestinian factions and forces, the Higher Committee of Clans and Tribes, civil society institutions, and in the presence of the United Nations observer representative.
Accordingly, the Chairman of the Government Emergency Committee and Acting Head of Government Follow-up, Mohammad Abdel Khaleq al-Farra, has submitted his official resignation from his position, and the Government Emergency Committee has been dissolved, reaffirming the seriousness of these measures, implementing the agreed arrangements, and facilitating the administrative transition.
We assure our Palestinian people that those remaining within the governmental system are solely technical and professional employees, who will remain at their posts to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of public services and prevent any administrative or technical vacuum that could harm our people, in accordance with the roadmap agreed upon by the Palestinian factions in Cairo.
We affirm unequivocally that all personnel responsible for providing public services are state employees and are fully prepared to work under the authority of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, in full compliance with its directives and decisions.
In conclusion, we call on all relevant parties to immediately expedite the entry of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza so that it can begin carrying out its national and administrative responsibilities, strengthen the resilience of our people, and help heal their wounds.”
]]>President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
Ladies and gentlemen,
I greet you all with my heartfelt respect and warmest regards. Welcome to the Presidential Complex—the House of the Nation.
It is a great pleasure to be with you on the occasion of the 36th NATO Ankara Summit of Heads of State and Government. I sincerely thank each and every one of you for honoring us with your presence.
A short while ago, we successfully concluded the NATO Summit, which Turkey has hosted for the second time in 22 years and for the first time in our capital, Ankara.
At a time when Euro-Atlantic security is being seriously tested, this historic summit has shaped the direction of our common future. Here in Ankara, we laid the foundations for a stronger NATO by reinforcing our military capabilities through a fairer sharing of responsibilities, with our European allies assuming a greater role within the Alliance.
First, I would like to emphasize one important point.
As Turkey, we were unable to benefit from the post-Cold War peace dividend to the same extent as many of our European friends. Instead, we found ourselves surrounded by crises and conflicts. We had to confront terrorism and numerous security threats in our region, and there were times when we were left alone and subjected to injustice.
As a result, we often had no choice but to rely on our own strength.
Today, however, in terms of defense spending, military capabilities, and the defense industry that supports them, Turkey stands well ahead of many of its allies.
Dear friends,
During our summit, we reviewed the implementation of the commitments made last year in The Hague. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte presented concrete figures demonstrating the progress achieved by our Allies.
We also outlined our own tangible contributions to the Alliance, which will continue to increase gradually across multiple dimensions.
The NATO Ankara Summit clearly demonstrated the spirit of solidarity among Allies.
Every member nation participated at the level of Heads of State or Government. We see this as another clear indication of the confidence placed in Turkey and the growing respect for our diplomacy.
As you know, President Donald Trump also emphasized that Turkey’s hosting of the summit played a decisive role in his decision to attend. His remarks highlighting our personal friendship were especially meaningful and valuable to us. I once again thank my dear friend for his sincere appreciation.
Distinguished members of the press,
Turkey has been a member of NATO since 1952.
However, we are not merely another member of the Alliance. We are the heirs of a great nation whose military tradition spans more than two thousand years and has been forged through countless historic victories.
When Turkey joined NATO, we contributed not only our unique geostrategic position at the crossroads of three continents but also a military heritage refined over centuries of experience on the battlefield.
Our beloved Turkish Armed Forces possess the strength and capability to eliminate every threat to our national security at its source.
Today, we command NATO’s second-largest land force.
For decades, the security of NATO’s southeastern flank has largely rested upon Turkey’s shoulders, and we have faithfully fulfilled that responsibility.
We have always been an Ally that carries out its duties with commitment, shares burdens, and is willing to make sacrifices whenever necessary.
Turkey is among the leading contributors to NATO operations, missions, and common funding.
In this new era, where collective defense once again occupies the center of NATO’s strategy, we stand ready to assume even greater responsibility under the principle of fair burden-sharing.
Beginning in August, our F-16 fighter aircraft will be deployed to Estonia as part of NATO’s Air Policing Mission.
We will continue commanding the NATO KFOR mission in Kosovo until the end of September 2026.
Furthermore, Turkey will lead the NATO Response Force during 2028–2029.
Beyond these examples, we continue making significant contributions to numerous other NATO missions.
The Security and Defence Partnership Agreement signed today between Turkey and the United Kingdom is another important step in this regard.
Certainly, the amount of money spent on defense is important.
However, true deterrence depends on three essential pillars:
▪️Superior technology,
▪️Sufficient production capacity,
▪️Sustainable industrial capability.
These will form the strongest foundations of both deterrence and resilience in the years ahead.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
Ladies and gentlemen,
The remarkable progress Turkey has achieved in the defense industry over the past 23 years is well known.
Today, Turkey is among the few NATO Allies capable of producing its own fighter aircraft, battle tanks, naval vessels, and advanced air defense systems.
We rank among the world’s leading nations in unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned naval systems, and warship production.
While equipping our own armed forces with domestically developed capabilities, we are also supporting our Allies through the export of Turkish defense products.
Distinguished members of the press,
As I stated earlier this morning, the European Union’s defense initiatives must complement NATO rather than create unnecessary duplication.
I continue to emphasize this important point at every opportunity and in every forum with both our NATO Allies and the leadership of the European Union.
It is a simple reality that if non-EU NATO Allies such as Turkey are not fully included in the Union’s defense initiatives, those efforts will remain significantly less effective.
At the same time, although some restrictions on defense trade among Allies have been reduced, various obstacles still remain.
These barriers should be removed completely, without conditions or exceptions.
We ensured that this issue was specifically reflected in the Summit Declaration.
Allow me to stress once again:
NATO should not become an alliance of countries dependent on one another, but an alliance of partners that strengthen one another.
Through the Defence Industry Forum we hosted during the Summit, our Allies also adopted the Ankara Strategy, which aims to deepen NATO’s cooperation with the defense industry.
Distinguished guests,
Terrorism remains one of the two principal threats facing NATO.
At every recent NATO Summit, we have discussed practical steps to strengthen our collective fight against terrorism.
At the Ankara Summit, we once again underlined the importance of sincere solidarity among Allies in combating terrorism.
During our discussions, we also addressed the war in Ukraine, which has now entered its fifth year.
This conflict has increasingly become a war of attrition, turning into a machine of destruction that claims tens of thousands of lives every single month.
From the very beginning of the conflict, Turkey has consistently advocated dialogue and diplomacy as the only path toward peace.
Our Allies are fully aware of this principled position.
Today, I would like to repeat one fundamental truth:
There are no losers in a just peace.
We reaffirmed Turkey’s readiness to once again bring the parties together on Turkish soil whenever they are prepared to negotiate.
Today, we also evaluated the latest developments in the Middle East.
We welcomed the Islamabad Agreement, a process that Turkey has supported at every stage.
We are fully aware of the challenges involved in negotiations.
However, what matters most is preserving the political will to reach a solution.
Even if setbacks occur from time to time, I firmly believe that common sense will ultimately prevail.
That is also what the international community expects—a genuine opportunity for peace.
At the same time, while hopes for peace are emerging in some areas, violence continues elsewhere.
Since March 2, nearly 5,000 people have lost their lives in Lebanon, where attacks continue without interruption.
People are being displaced from their homes, cities are being destroyed, and Lebanese territory is being occupied step by step.
Likewise, in Gaza—where 73,000 innocent people, the majority of them women and children, have been killed—occupation and oppression continue unabated.
Those who believe their own security depends upon instability throughout the region are attempting to extinguish even the smallest hope for peace.
We must not allow this war-driven mentality to prevail.
Our region cannot endure another escalation or another conflict.
On the contrary, humanity today needs peace, stability, and security as urgently as it needs air and water.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
Distinguished members of the press,
During the summit, I also held bilateral meetings with several leaders, particularly President Donald Trump, who paid an official visit to our country.
Our discussions focused on both bilateral relations and regional developments.
On the sidelines of the summit, I also met with the leaders of Bulgaria, Canada, Finland, France, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa was also in Ankara.
Later this evening, we will attend a working dinner with the leadership of the European Union.
Tomorrow, we will welcome the leaders of Montenegro, Slovakia, and Albania.
As you know, next year marks the 75th anniversary of Turkey’s membership in NATO.
On the eve of this meaningful milestone, I would once again like to express my great satisfaction at hosting the NATO Summit here in our capital, Ankara.
I sincerely congratulate NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and his team, with whom we worked in close cooperation throughout the summit preparations, as well as all the officials who worked tirelessly over the past several days to ensure the successful organization of this historic meeting.
I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Ankara, who once again demonstrated Turkey’s greatness and the hospitality of the Turkish nation to the entire world.
God willing, before the end of 2026, Turkey will host two more major international summits.
On 29–30 October, we will host the 13th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States here in Ankara.
Shortly afterward, between 9–20 November, we will host the COP31 Climate Summit in Antalya.
With these thoughts, I hope the NATO Ankara Summit will bring peace and positive outcomes for all.
I thank all members of the press who have traveled from around the world for your interest and participation.
Now, I would like to take your questions.
Reporter (TRT Haber):
Mr. President, your remarks regarding the possible addition of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey’s fleet have received significant international attention.
However, I’d like to mention two reactions.
The first came from the Israeli Prime Minister, who said he opposes the sale of F-35s to Turkey, claiming that it could enable Turkey to pursue what he described as “expansionist ambitions.”
The second reaction came from one of our NATO allies. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also opposed the sale, arguing that Turkey poses a serious military threat because of the ongoing disputes over maritime boundaries.
How do you assess these statements?
Could they complicate the F-35 process from a diplomatic perspective?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
Neither of those statements has any place in my world.
Everyone knows what waters Mr. Netanyahu is navigating.
As for Mr. Mitsotakis, I don’t think he should have fallen into such a mistake.
Have we ever questioned why Greece purchases certain defense systems?
Have we ever asked, “Why did you buy them?” or “Why are you buying them?”
No.
Even though Greece is our immediate neighbor, we have never taken such an approach.
Turkey also has every right to purchase defense equipment.
In fact, Turkey is no longer merely buying such systems—we are producing them ourselves.
At the same time, we continue discussions with various countries around the world regarding our defense needs, and we will continue taking the necessary steps accordingly.
Reporter (Reuters):
Mr. President, during your meeting with President Trump there appeared to be positive signals regarding the F-35 issue.
However, during his press conference he said that he had not yet made a final decision.
What exactly did he tell you regarding the F-35 program?
Secondly, under U.S. legislation, Turkey’s possession of the S-400 system remains an obstacle to rejoining the F-35 program.
What does Turkey intend to do with the S-400s?
Would Turkey return them to Russia or deploy them in another country?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
Thank you.
Just keep following us.
Reporter (Sabah Digital):
Mr. President, the allocation of $24 billion for the Steel Dome Project demonstrates Turkey’s determination to achieve complete independence in air defense.
How will this ambitious project strengthen not only Turkey’s own security but also NATO’s overall air defense capabilities?
How do you assess the interest shown by our Allies?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
The Steel Dome Project is also one of NATO’s strongest strategic assets in our region.
We have already taken all the necessary steps.
Turkey continues to make progress every single day.
We have demonstrated these capabilities before, we continue to demonstrate them, and we will keep doing so.
If others have their own defense “domes,” then Turkey has its own Steel Dome.
Reporter (Azerbaijan Press Agency):
Mr. President, did you discuss developments in the South Caucasus during your meeting with President Trump?
Was regional peace in the South Caucasus part of your discussions?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
The South Caucasus was not part of our discussions today.
However, I can speak with President Trump about such matters at any time by telephone.
Thank you.
Reporter (A Haber):
Mr. President, Prime Minister Mitsotakis recently stated that Turkey and Greece should resolve their maritime disputes and said relations have entered a constructive period.
After so many years of dialogue, what could be the next step in Turkish-Greek relations?
Secondly, did the issue of the Halki Seminary come up during your discussions with President Trump?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
No, the Halki Seminary was not discussed.
As for Mr. Mitsotakis, I share his view that the issues concerning the Aegean Sea should be resolved.
First, our foreign ministers should continue their work.
If necessary, we as leaders can then meet to discuss these matters directly.
Let me say this clearly:
Resolving these issues is, above all, the responsibility of the leaders.
I fully share that understanding.
Reporter:
Mr. President, Turkey has become widely recognized as a peace-builder and an exceptional mediator under your leadership.
Many leaders—including President Trump—have expressed their desire to work with you on resolving international disputes.
Given the differences that remain among NATO allies over issues such as Russia-Ukraine and Iran, do you believe Turkey will take on new mediation roles following this NATO Summit?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
I firmly believe that a fairer world is possible, and we must continue working toward that goal.
Every political leader who believes in peace has a responsibility to think, act, and take concrete steps to resolve these problems.
I never say that these issues are impossible to solve.
On the contrary, I believe they can be solved.
We will continue making every effort.
President Trump, along with leaders across the world, must show determination and commitment.
Those whose priority is peace should contribute in every possible way.
Reporter (A Haber):
Mr. President, since President Trump arrived in Turkey, you have spent considerable time together.
You held informal discussions, a lengthy joint press conference, and later a bilateral meeting.
Could you elaborate on the main issues discussed?
Also, what feedback have you received from other leaders regarding the NATO Summit in Ankara?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
Our joint press conference with President Trump at the Presidential Complex was very comprehensive.
As members of the press, you were there, and I believe you had every opportunity to follow what was discussed.
Both President Trump and I answered all the questions put before us.
It was an extremely productive meeting.
When we left the press conference, President Trump was very pleased.
Reporter (Milliyet):
Mr. President, how have NATO allies responded to Turkey’s proposal to establish a NATO-accredited Centre of Excellence for Counter-Unmanned Systems, drawing on Turkey’s extensive experience with unmanned technologies?
How could such a center contribute to NATO’s strategy in the Black Sea and Aegean regions?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
Those directly involved in establishing these Centers of Excellence will provide more detailed information when the time is appropriate.
However, Turkey already possesses significant expertise and capabilities in this field.
We continue to demonstrate both our technological strength and the work carried out by our Centers of Excellence.
Baykar is one of the most important examples of this success.
The company continues to receive a large number of international orders.
This clearly demonstrates that Turkish unmanned aerial systems have earned worldwide recognition.
Reporter (TRT World):
Mr. President, following President Trump’s visit, many expect a new chapter in U.S.-Turkey relations.
What concrete steps do you anticipate in areas such as trade, defense cooperation, and regional security?
Which area do you see as the highest priority for bilateral cooperation?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
Naturally, defense cooperation remains one of our highest priorities.
At the same time, expanding our economic relationship with the United States is equally important.
Strengthening our economic ties serves Turkey’s national interests, and the United States shares that view.
We intend to continue moving forward in this direction.
President Trump and I are in agreement on these matters.
One of the most important issues discussed was the F-35 program.
President Trump has adopted a positive approach toward Turkey.
God willing, when the F-35 aircraft are delivered to Turkey, the entire world will see that the United States has honored its commitment.
Reporter (Star Newspaper):
Mr. President, Turkey is hosting a NATO Summit for the second time. The first was held in Istanbul in 2004, during the early years of your government, and now, in 2026, the summit has been hosted in Ankara.
Next week marks the 10th anniversary of the July 15 coup attempt. Over the years, Turkey has made significant progress not only in strengthening its defense industry and military but also in consolidating its democracy after overcoming major challenges, including the July 15 events.
How do you assess Turkey’s democratic progress since 2004, particularly in light of the July 15 anniversary?
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
With regard to July 15, our government has successfully advanced the vision of a terror-free Turkey.
Today, shepherds in southeastern and eastern Turkey can freely graze their flocks on the highlands without fear.
Parents can confidently entrust their children with those responsibilities.
People are now able to swim safely in our rivers and streams.
We hold public meetings and rallies across the region without difficulty.
These are clear signs of how far we have come in building a Turkey free from terrorism.
Our party continues to organize rallies throughout the region, and we are grateful to God for enabling us to achieve these successes.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
Thank you all very much for your questions and for your interest.
I once again thank all members of the press from around the world for following the NATO Ankara Summit.
May the decisions taken during this summit contribute to peace, security, and stability for our region and the world.
Thank you very much.
President Donald Trump:
He’s brought the country together. He’s a strong person, a great leader, and respected by everybody, including me.
We’re proud to have him here.
We’re here to talk about a few things. We lifted sanctions on Syria, which I think was a very important step and a major boost for the country.
Syria has become remarkably stable in a short period of time. It’s amazing how quickly it’s been stabilized, and we’re proud to have played a part in that.
Syria has one of the great cultures—not just in the Middle East, but anywhere in the world. It has produced great professors, lawyers, and doctors. Then it went through a terrible period.
It’s a country many people are proud of, and they’re proud of the job he’s done.
Thank you very much.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa:
As President Trump said, we achieved a great victory by toppling the former regime.
In just a year and a half, we have reunited the country, restored national unity, and put Syria back on the right track.
This achievement belongs to the strong Syrian people that President Trump spoke about.
The historic decision by President Trump to lift sanctions on Syria, together with the support of friendly countries—especially Turkey and other neighbors—has greatly helped us.
The entire Syrian people thank President Trump.
President Trump:
Thank you very much.
I’m proud of you.
Any questions?
Question:
Are you going to remove Syria from the U.S. State Sponsors of Terrorism list?
President Trump:
I think I will.
Why wouldn’t I?
He’s done a great job.
That’s a good question.
Yes, I think we should.
Question:
Do you still want Syria to help deal with Hezbollah in Lebanon?
President Trump:
They could help.
We’ll find out.
I think we’re making a lot of progress.
They would do a very good job.
Question:
Prime Minister Netanyahu has criticized aspects of your relationship with President Erdoğan, saying he has imperial ambitions in neighboring countries, including Syria.
President Trump:
He hasn’t been involved in Syria against Israel.
He’s left Israel alone.
I wouldn’t say he’s Netanyahu’s friend—they don’t get along—but he’s been great with me.
Turkey has been a fantastic ally and is a NATO member.
No American president has done more for Israel than I have.
Look at Jerusalem, the Golan Heights, and everything else we’ve done.
We’ve also made tremendous progress with Iran.
We wiped out their military capabilities.
Question:
Should Prime Minister Netanyahu be reelected?
President Trump:
He’s been a great wartime prime minister.
We worked very closely together through a major conflict.
I don’t know much about his domestic politics, but I think he should be popular because he did a very good job.
If Israel had a weak prime minister, the country wouldn’t exist today.
And if I hadn’t been president, Israel wouldn’t exist today either.
Question:
The Energy Information Administration says U.S. oil production reached a record under your leadership. Why is that important?
President Trump:
When we carried out what I call the denuclearization of Iran, we expected oil prices to rise sharply.
Instead, they’re coming down.
Iran will never have a nuclear weapon.
Oil prices are falling, and I think they’ll go much lower.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent:
Record production occurred during President Trump’s first term and now again in his second.
The United States is an energy superpower.
Bloomberg recently wrote that there’s now an oil glut.
American energy has made us stronger than anyone else during recent conflicts.
President Trump:
The United States now produces almost twice as much oil as Saudi Arabia and Russia combined.
That doesn’t even include Venezuela.
We started this during my first term.
The previous administration damaged it, but we’ve brought it back.
Question:
You’ve said dealing with Iran is a waste of time. How will you secure its nuclear material?
President Trump:
We’ve already secured the situation.
The nuclear material is buried so deep underground that only the United States has the equipment capable of reaching it.
Question:
So there are no plans for boots on the ground?
President Trump:
Why would I send troops now?
I’d only consider that if everything else failed or if an agreement wasn’t reached.
Question:
If you cut off trade with Spain, would you have to renegotiate trade agreements with the European Union?
President Trump:
We’ll see what happens.
The European Union has taken advantage of the United States for years.
Just as Syria was taken advantage of, we’re bringing America back.
We now have $19.2 trillion being invested in the United States.
That’s the largest investment in any country in history.
Toyota is moving major production from Mexico to the United States.
Factories are being built all over the country.
Question:
You recently said Walmart would reduce prices by 15%. How significant is that?
President Trump:
It’s a very big deal for American families.
We inherited extremely high inflation.
Now prices are coming down.
Oil prices have fallen dramatically, and when oil falls, everything else becomes cheaper.
The media started talking about “affordability” as soon as I took office.
Remember the egg prices?
They told me not to use real eggs for the White House Easter Egg Hunt because they were too expensive.
I said we weren’t doing that.
Now egg prices are way down.
Everything is moving in the right direction.
Question:
Brent crude oil rose slightly today.
President Trump:
Whenever we strike Iran, oil goes up a little.
But overall, prices are still falling.
We’re denuclearizing Iran.
They’re not going to have a nuclear weapon.
Question:
Do you think Israel should withdraw its troops from southern Lebanon?
President Trump:
I spoke with Bibi about that.
I think they want to withdraw.
They’re getting along with Lebanon.
They’re signing agreements.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio:
We have an agreement in place.
That’s the objective.
Israel is naturally concerned about its security, but the President brought Israel and Lebanon together for the first time in many years.
I think it’s going to work out very well.
]]>President Trump:
We’re here because Syria has turned around faster than almost any country I’ve ever seen.
I also turned the United States around very quickly.
We inherited serious problems—open borders, crime, and inflation.
We’ve removed thousands of dangerous criminals.
Crime has fallen dramatically in Washington, D.C., Memphis, New Orleans, and other cities.
We’ve done a great job.
And he’s done a great job too.
Thank you very much.
President Trump:
Thank you, everybody.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa:
Thank you.
Reporters:
Thank you.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan:
First, on the occasion of the NATO Summit, I would like to warmly welcome my valuable friend, President Trump. His participation has added strength to this summit. We are gathered here today for the NATO Ankara Summit, and the presence of President Trump makes this meeting even more significant. Once again, welcome, Mr. President.
President Donald Trump:
Thank you very much.
As everybody knows, we’ve been great friends. The President has done an incredible job. Just landing at the airport and seeing such a beautiful airport—and even having a building named after me—I was very happy about that.
The airport is absolutely beautiful. The roads coming in were brand new and beautiful.
You’ve been a great leader and a respected leader all over the world. Right from the beginning, we’ve had good chemistry and a very special relationship.
Turkey has become, under President Erdoğan, a very powerful country militarily. People don’t realize just how powerful it is. They have a lot of our equipment, great soldiers, and they’re really somebody to be reckoned with.
Because of the relationship we have, everything has gone very well.
Today we’ll be talking about trade, the military, and many other issues. We’ll probably discuss Iran, where we’ve essentially decimated their military. They cannot have a nuclear weapon.
We do a lot of trade with Turkey. We make great things, they make great things, and it’s had a very big impact on both of our countries.
It’s an honor to be with you. We’ll have good meetings, good dinners, good food, and most importantly, we’ll do good things for our countries.
Thank you very much.
]]>Reporter:
Mr. President, are you going to sell F-35s to Turkey? And what about the legal restrictions?
President Trump:
It’s a decision we’re going to make.
We have a very good relationship. Many people—including those sitting right here—wonder why we wouldn’t do that.
Turkey has been, in many ways, much more loyal than some countries we expected would be loyal.
So yes, it’s certainly something we would consider. It’s a great plane—the best plane by far.
Reporter (Daniel):
What makes your relationship with President Erdoğan so special?
President Trump:
You never know why a relationship is special.
Some people you get along with, some you don’t.
Sometimes you get along with the toughest people, like him. Sometimes you don’t get along with the weakest, most pathetic people.
From the day we met, we got along.
I remember Pastor Brunson. It was a very traumatic situation. He had been sentenced to a long prison term, and I believed he was innocent.
Others called and got nowhere. I called President Erdoğan, and he released him immediately.
The evangelical community will never forget that.
Since then, things have always worked out between us. It’s simply a chemistry that works.
Reporter:
Are further troop drawdowns in Europe likely? And are you satisfied with NATO allies’ progress?
President Trump:
We’ll see.
Frankly, if this summit weren’t being held in Turkey—where my friend is such a strong leader—it’s possible I wouldn’t have attended.
I was disappointed with NATO.
When we acted in Iran, before I even asked for help, they said they wouldn’t be there.
We’ve invested trillions of dollars protecting Europe, Canada, and others.
Yet when we needed support, countries like the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, and France turned us down.
I don’t need their help now, but I was testing whether they’d stand with us.
We’ve always been there for them.
Reporter:
Do you still have concerns about Turkey’s Russian missile defense system?
President Trump:
I have no concerns at all.
President Erdoğan has made Turkey a much stronger and more powerful country.
Our relationship with Turkey is probably better now than it’s ever been.
Reporter:
Should we expect further U.S.-Turkey defense cooperation after this summit?
President Trump:
We’ll find out during our meetings.
I’ve been doing this for a long time.
We’ve had probably the best year any American president has ever had economically.
We’ve attracted $19.2 trillion in investment into the United States.
Toyota is moving one of its biggest truck and car plants from Mexico to the U.S.
That’s what tariffs do when they’re used properly.
Turkey also happens to be one of the countries with which we have a great trade relationship.
Reporter:
What about maintaining Turkish aircraft purchased from the United States?
President Trump:
When Turkey buys planes from us, I believe we have an obligation to maintain them.
If engines need repairs, upgrades, or rehabilitation, we should help.
What are we going to do—tell them we’re not going to service equipment they paid for?
Turkey has been a great ally.
They know Iran very well. They could have entered the conflict, but they didn’t.
They’ve been very helpful, including efforts to end the conflict with Iran.
I’m certain President Erdoğan doesn’t want Iran to have a nuclear weapon either.
Reporter:
Will you meet President Putin tomorrow?
President Trump:
Yes.
I had a very good conversation with President Putin yesterday.
He has a lot of respect for President Erdoğan.
Afterward, I also spoke with President Zelenskyy.
I believe both of them now want to make a deal.
President Erdoğan is helping us.
I’ve settled eight wars, and I think we’re going to settle another one.
Last month, 35,000 people—mostly soldiers—died.
That’s crazy.
President Trump (on sanctions):
We’re going to be taking the sanctions off.
We’re working closely with Marco Rubio, Scott Bessent, Pete Hegseth, and others.
It’s time.
We don’t want to sanction friends.
Because of President Erdoğan, we also have a very good relationship with Syria’s new leader.
He’s done an amazing job pulling the country together.
President Erdoğan and I both supported him.
Reporter:
Yesterday you criticized Prime Minister Meloni. Has your relationship changed?
President Trump:
I actually like her.
But I wasn’t happy because she refused to support us regarding Iran.
That affected our relationship.
Italy gets a lot of its oil from the region.
The United States doesn’t need it—we have plenty of oil.
She simply wasn’t there for us.
Reporter:
Did President Putin seem open to concessions on Ukraine?
President Trump:
He hasn’t changed.
I just want the killing to stop.
Last month alone, 35,000 people died.
It’s a drone war now—a completely new kind of warfare.
I’ve seen pictures of the battlefields.
It’s carnage.
I get along well with both Putin and Zelenskyy, and I think we’re going to get it settled.
President Erdoğan is helping us with that, just as he’s helping with Iran.
President Trump (on Greenland and NATO):
Greenland is strategically important.
It’s surrounded by Chinese and Russian ships.
In my view, it should be controlled by the United States, not Denmark.
We spend enormous amounts protecting Europe.
Europe today is very different from what it was 20 years ago.
They also need to be careful about immigration and energy.
If they’re not, you’re not going to have the Europe you know today.
President Trump:
Thank you very much, everybody.
Recent assessments reveal that around two in three Ukrainians, approximately 68-70% report a decline in their health compared to the pre-war period. This figure highlights the pervasive impact of prolonged conflict on both physical and mental well-being.
Key Drivers of Health Decline
Several interconnected factors are contributing to this crisis:
Mental Health Burden: Mental health concerns top the list, affecting nearly half the population (around 46%). This includes heightened anxiety, depression, and trauma from living under constant threat. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which account for 84% of deaths in Ukraine, are worsening due to disrupted care.
Disrupted Healthcare Access: Attacks on healthcare facilities over 3,000 verified by WHO since the full-scale invasion, have severely hampered service delivery. Barriers such as unavailability of services, high medicine costs, and security risks leave many with chronic conditions vulnerable.
Lifestyle and Environmental Stressors: Chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and exposure to danger are fueling rises in cardiovascular events like strokes and heart attacks, alongside neurological issues.
Vulnerable Groups: Older adults, children, and those with pre-existing conditions face amplified risks. Displacement, power outages, and winter hardships further erode coping mechanisms.
Four years into the full-scale invasion, the war continues to strain Ukraine’s health system. WHO and partners are focusing on mental health support, trauma care, rehabilitation, and ensuring access to essential services. However, declining international funding poses additional challenges.
“Our recent assessments show that more than two thirds of Ukrainians report a decline in their health compared to the pre-war period, with mental health concerns affecting nearly half of the population. […] This cannot be normalized.”
— WHO Representatives and officials, reflecting on the sustained impact of the conflict on Ukraine’s health system and population.
Despite navigating extraordinary, life-threatening conditions, the WHO Health Emergency Appeal highlights that Ukraine’s healthcare workforce maintains unexpected resilience. Around 93% of surveyed households still know where to find their nearest functional primary health facility. However, deep structural vulnerabilities remain, specifically severe shortages of trauma specialists, understaffed frontline clinics, and long waiting periods for the staggering number of war-related amputations and complex physical rehabilitations.
Experts emphasize the urgent need for sustained international support to prevent further irreversible health deterioration. As the conflict persists, addressing these hidden wounds alongside visible destruction remains critical for Ukraine’s long-term recovery.
This public health emergency underscores the far-reaching human cost of war, extending well beyond the battlefield.
]]>Gaza sources reported emotional scenes as the freed men reached the medical facility, where crowds of Palestinians gathered to welcome them back to their homeland after enduring years of imprisonment. These releases highlight the steadfastness of the Palestinian people in the face of occupation and the ongoing struggle for freedom and dignity.
The Freed Prisoners
The following Palestinian captives were released from Israeli prisons and arrived at Nasser Medical Complex:
Zakaria Bilal Eid Abu Labda
Khaled Hassan Ali Abu Gharaba
Emad Ramadan Omar Ishtiwi
Yousef Abdullah Mohammed Al-Bashiti
Raed Mohammed Saeed Abu Riyala
Mohammed Abdullah Mohammed Al-Bashiti
Ramadan Osama Salim Abu Amr
Nimer Mazen Ahmed Al-Qur’an
Diaa Hazem Ahmed Al-Qur’an
Mahmoud Ismail Abdel Ghaffar Jahjouh
Muammar Ayman Mahmoud Al-Helou
Jumaa Mazen Ahmed Al-Qur’an
Moussa Adel Moussa Al-Shaer
Zuhair Ahmed Jumaa Al-Qur’an
Amin Bahjat Mohammed Abu Awda
Mohammed Jihad Jazaa Al-Soufi
Hamada Yasser Abdel Banna
Many of these men, like thousands of other Palestinian political prisoners, were detained for resisting the Israeli occupation. Their freedom represents a small but meaningful victory for the Palestinian cause, as families reunite and communities celebrate the return of their sons and brothers.
Under the ceasefire framework, Israel was compelled to release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners including many serving long or life sentences, in exchange for Israeli hostages. This deal underscores the effectiveness of Palestinian negotiations and resistance in securing the freedom of their people. Buses carrying the released prisoners arrived via crossings into Gaza, with many heading directly to Nasser Medical Complex for much-needed medical care after harsh conditions in Israeli detention.
For decades, Palestinian prisoners have symbolized the broader fight against occupation. Held in Israeli jails often under administrative detention without fair trial, subjected to reported ill-treatment, and used as bargaining chips, their stories embody the collective suffering of the Palestinian people. Today’s releases bring hope and reaffirm the unbreakable spirit of a nation determined to achieve justice, return, and self-determination.
Palestinians across Gaza and the West Bank have taken to the streets in celebration, waving flags and chanting in solidarity. These moments of joy stand in stark contrast to the immense hardships endured under blockade, bombardment, and imprisonment.
As more prisoners return home, the Palestinian people continue to demand the release of all remaining captives and an end to the occupation. This exchange is not just about individuals, it is about the enduring quest for freedom, dignity, and a just peace in historic Palestine.
]]>Libya has been fractured since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that ousted longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi, leading to years of civil war and rival administrations: the UN-recognized Government of National Unity (GNU) in Tripoli in the west, and the eastern forces aligned with Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan National Army (LNA). Decades of foreign interference, disputes over oil revenues, and power-sharing have stalled previous reconciliation attempts.
Pakistan’s involvement builds on a U.S.-led push for a diplomatic solution. Sources indicate strong backing from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey. One Pakistani source noted that Washington is “fully aware and involved” in the initiative. Pakistan has maintained balanced ties with both Libyan sides, including defense cooperation discussions with the east and recent outreach from the west.
A proposed “Libya Reunification Plan” outlines a 36-month transitional arrangement under a Government of National Consensus and Presidential Council. It envisions Abdulhamid Dbeibah of the GNU as prime minister and Saddam Haftar (deputy commander of the LNA) as chairman of the Presidential Council, with Khalifa Haftar’s faction gaining authority over key budgetary matters. Details are still under discussion, with Pakistan committed to ensuring the arrangement holds.
“Pakistan would play an active role in making sure this whole arrangement stays in play.”
— Pakistani source familiar with the mediation efforts as reported by Reuters
“The United States has been pushing hard in Libya… but the format it is trying to impose is still loose and ill-defined.”
— Jalel Harchaoui, contributor to Britain’s Royal United Services Institute
Last month, Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir met with Saddam Haftar in Rawalpindi, paving the way for Haftar’s subsequent visit to Washington. These engagements underscore Pakistan’s growing convening power.
This Libya initiative marks another milestone in Pakistan’s emergence as a credible mediator in complex global conflicts. Earlier this year, Islamabad played a pivotal role in facilitating de-escalation and talks between the United States and Iran, earning praise from the Trump administration. Pakistan has leveraged its unique position — neutral enough to be trusted by opposing sides, yet strategically connected through geography, history, and bilateral ties — to bridge divides where traditional powers have struggled.
Analysts point to Pakistan’s expanding diplomatic footprint across the Middle East and beyond. From hosting follow-on diplomacy to defense pacts like the one with Saudi Arabia, Islamabad is transitioning from a regional player to a sought-after interlocutor. Its mediation in Libya demonstrates a pragmatic foreign policy focused on stability, economic partnerships, and peaceful conflict resolution in the Muslim world and globally.
While challenges remain including entrenched foreign interests, oil politics, and the risk of deals unraveling, Pakistan’s proactive role signals a broader shift. In a multipolar world, nations like Pakistan are gaining influence not through military might alone, but through diplomatic agility, trust-building, and the ability to deliver results in high-stakes negotiations.
As one observer noted, Pakistan’s successes highlight how access, strategic positioning, and credibility can translate into real global influence. If the Libya mediation bears fruit, it could further solidify Islamabad’s reputation as an indispensable bridge-builder in an increasingly fragmented international order.
Pakistan’s rising profile underscores a key truth in modern geopolitics: influence accrues to those who can convene rivals and forge paths to peace amid complexity.
]]>]]>Captain Hossam Ahmed Abdel Baset, we are proud of you. We are proud of the coaching staff and proud of the players. We haven’t lost anything—we have earned the respect of the whole world, both on and off the field.
What we witnessed today, only God knows what happened with the refereeing. As fans, even before the media or anyone else, we reject what happened. The referee treated us unfairly. We are not upset because we will return to Egypt with our heads held high.
Interviewer: You don’t need to be questioned—you deserve to be thanked. We want to hear your thoughts after the match.
Hossam: Thank you, Ahmed. I am very happy, and I thank my players, the coaching staff, the administrative staff, and the medical team. Today I had the honor of leading a national team made up of 23 or 24 players, all of whom play in the Egyptian domestic league. We faced some of the most expensive and famous players in the world using only local players.
We worked hard, and we were the better team. We were better than the defending champions in every aspect. However, the result was influenced by factors—not just inside the field but also outside it before the match even started.
It was obvious that the pressure placed on the referee before the match by the Argentine side succeeded. They objected to the referee because of France and the French national team. I want to say something: in life, doing the right thing doesn’t always mean everything will go your way. If you choose the right path, you will still face hardship.
We did everything the right way, but we suffered because of outside influences. Those foreign officials don’t feel anything because they simply don’t care.
I believe we deserved to win. I don’t even want to say “hard luck” to us. We left with honor, but the result was affected by factors that had nothing to do with fair play. FIFA talks about respect and fair play, but today there was neither respect nor fair play.
A penalty for us was canceled. Our second goal, which would have made it 2–0, was disallowed in a very strange way. VAR was used to cancel our goal, but when one of our players was clearly pulled inside the penalty area, neither the referee nor VAR even bothered to review it. They didn’t even ask the referee to check the monitor, yet they were quick to use VAR against us.
Life isn’t fair, and today the world wasn’t fair. There is no fairness—not in football, not in sports, and often not in life itself. I believe in my team, but I do not accept what happened in this match. I won’t speak politely or say “hard luck, Argentina.” No. I will say that we were wronged today, deliberately, just as we were in the previous match.
I also firmly believe that whoever schedules these matches has never played football and knows nothing about it. There is no football match that should be played at 12 noon. Noon is a time to take a walk, get some fresh air, or have breakfast—not to play football.
Do those making these decisions even understand when players are supposed to eat before a match? Our players had to eat around 7:30 in the morning just to be ready for a noon kickoff. The whole situation was handled very badly.
I strongly object to what happened both on and off the field. There were only two matches today, and this was the Round of 16. Why play at noon? There were only two games—you could have scheduled one at 6 p.m., another at 8 p.m., or even 10 p.m., as you’ve done before.
I’m not going to bury my head in the sand like an ostrich. I will say openly that there was no credibility in what happened. But I am proud of my team, proud of my country, proud to be Arab, proud to be African, and proud that my country is both Arab and African.
Unfortunately, we are still far from getting justice. In many areas, we simply don’t receive our rights.
Journalist: Captain Hossam, I want to convey the feelings of the Egyptian people. We are proud of you and your players. You made us dream and believe. No one held anything back. After your statements yesterday regarding the Palestinian issue, do you believe Egypt was punished today by the refereeing because of what you said?
Hossam: I don’t want to go too deeply into that. We were talking about a humanitarian issue. Doesn’t anyone see the children who have died, who lost their legs, their arms, or their eyesight? Do you feel anything?
Football, the media, and athletes should stand for humanitarian causes. In that country where children are being killed, those children wear Argentina shirts, Barcelona shirts, Manchester City shirts, and Real Madrid shirts. They love football, and they love those teams and players. Yet they continue to be killed while everyone remains silent.
Journalist (ON Sport): We will keep talking for days about how proud we are because you made us hold our heads high. Even Argentina celebrated this victory almost like they celebrated winning the 2022 World Cup. That shows how strong our team has become. What conversation took place between you and the French referee after you received the yellow card? And what message did you give your players?
Hossam: Thank you. I appreciate your kind words, and I also thank the millions of Egyptian fans watching us now.
I told my players that I am proud of them. This team will continue to improve. They performed exactly as I expected. We can compete against anyone, anywhere, at any time—as long as there is fairness.
I told the referee that what was happening was unfair. I kept saying, “Not fair.” Perhaps he understood exactly what I meant.
In my opinion, Argentina did not deserve this victory.
I promise that once I return home, I will not watch the rest of this World Cup because I don’t believe there is justice in it. My personal protest is that I won’t watch the World Cup anymore after I return to Egypt.
According to the latest official figures:
▪️1,528 confirmed cases
▪️492 deaths
▪️239 recoveries
▪️628 patients currently receiving care
▪️81.5% of contacts under monitoring
In the past 24 hours alone, health authorities recorded 26 new confirmed cases and 26 new recoveries. Nearly 10,000 contacts remain under surveillance, with more than 500 having completed the standard 21-day follow-up period.
The outbreak, declared in mid-May 2026, has primarily affected Ituri Province, which accounts for the vast majority of cases. It has since spread to additional health zones in North Kivu and South Kivu, complicating containment due to the region’s complex humanitarian challenges, including conflict, population displacement, and cross-border movements with Uganda.
Response efforts focus on strengthened surveillance, patient isolation and care, contact tracing, community mobilization, and infection prevention. A WHO-backed clinical trial for potential treatments, including remdesivir and MBP134, began recently, offering some hope amid the absence of approved vaccines or specific therapies for this Bundibugyo strain.
Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Ministry of Communication and Media):
“The Ebola response continues in Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu, with strengthened surveillance, patient care and community mobilization. As of July 3, 2026: 1,528 confirmed cases, 492 deaths, 239 recoveries, 628 patients receiving care, and 81.5% of contacts being monitored. The ministry said 26 new confirmed cases and 26 new recoveries were recorded in the past 24 hours. Nearly 10,000 contacts remain under surveillance, while more than 500 have completed the 21-day follow-up period.”
World Health Organization (WHO):
“The Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to evolve rapidly, with sustained transmission and increasing numbers of reported cases. National authorities in the two affected countries, in collaboration with WHO and partners, are implementing an extensive set of response measures… The risk in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains assessed as very high due to ongoing transmission and the continued expansion of the outbreak into new health zones.”
WHO has emphasized community engagement as critical to controlling the outbreak and advises against travel or trade restrictions while urging enhanced cross-border collaboration and preparedness in neighboring countries.
Health experts warn that the challenging security environment and high mobility in affected areas continue to hinder full containment. International support, including from the United States, Uganda, China, and various NGOs, is scaling up with additional funding, mobile labs, medical personnel, and supplies.
The situation remains fluid, with daily updates expected from Congolese health authorities and WHO. Public health officials stress the importance of early symptom reporting, safe burial practices, and avoiding contact with suspected cases to curb further transmission.
]]>In remarks highlighting Türkiye’s contributions, Rutte stated:
“Türkiye has one of the biggest armed forces in NATO, well trained. Particularly in the last 5–10 years, you have rapidly developed your defense industrial base. You now have about 3,000 companies turning out the defense industrial output that we need to defend ourselves. Ankara, Istanbul, Türkiye as a whole is really important. Your place on the map is important. Your leadership in NATO is important. The fact that you organized this summit in Ankara is evidence of that.”
This endorsement reflects Türkiye’s evolution from a key frontline member to a pivotal industrial and strategic pillar of NATO, especially amid alliance-wide pushes for higher defense spending, production ramp-up, and support for Ukraine.
Türkiye’s defense sector has undergone significant transformation over the past decade, moving toward greater self-sufficiency and innovation. Rutte has repeatedly described this as a “defense industrial revolution,” with companies like ASELSAN exemplifying the progress. He emphasized that Türkiye’s ecosystem, spanning large firms to agile smaller enterprises, is already supplying critical equipment to NATO forces and partners.
“There are thousands of companies in Türkiye producing everything NATO needs… NATO is already benefiting from Turkish defence production.”
- Mark Rutte
This growth enhances NATO’s overall resilience. With allies seeking to meet ambitious spending targets (including discussions around 5% of GDP in some contexts) and boost transatlantic production, Türkiye’s output directly addresses supply chain gaps and battlefield needs. Turkish systems have proven effective in real-world operations, offering adaptable, cost-effective solutions that complement Western platforms.
Experts note Türkiye’s strategic location bridging Europe, the Black Sea, and the Middle East, combined with its large battle-tested military, one of NATO’s largest, positions it as indispensable for collective defense, regional stability, and deterrence. Hosting the summit and the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum in Ankara further amplifies this leadership.
Rutte’s comments align with his pre-summit emphasis on “delivery” following the 2025 Hague Summit: increasing defense investment, strengthening industrial bases, and sustaining Ukraine support. He praised Türkiye not only for its forces and industry but also for its role in hosting key events and contributing to alliance priorities.
Türkiye’s rising influence signals a more multipolar NATO, where Ankara’s industrial and military heft provides leverage and capabilities that benefit the entire alliance. As production and innovation become central to NATO’s future, Türkiye’s contributions are set to deepen integration and shared security across the transatlantic community.
This summit in Ankara not only celebrates progress but also cements Türkiye’s trajectory as a driving force in NATO’s evolving defense posture.
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