Turkish PM: We will continue to back Jerusalem and Gaza

BEIRUT, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said during a visit to the Lebanese city of Akkar that if war broke out in the region the loser will not only be the region’s people, but Israeli citizens will share losses as well.

Erdogan, speaking before thousands in its neighboring state, called on Israel to quit acting provocatively, recant on its blunders, and apologize to the region’s people.

“We in the region will unite and grow for what’s right and for the rule of law, and we will stand in the face of the wrongdoers and in the face of the wrongdoing.”

The Turkish premier assured that his country will continue to back the causes of Jerusalem and Gaza until all rights are restored.

“We will say this strongly in the face of the murderers, yes, your are murderers. Trust fully that we will raise our voices high against the tyranny, and continue to defend what’s right as long as there are people working in piracy on the high seas; and we will defend the rights of the innocent and oppressed.”

Meanwhile, the Israeli security cabinet discussed Wednesday the possibility of reigniting tensions with the Hezbollah group in Lebanon following an expected ruling by the international court in charge of investigating into the assassination of the country’s former prime minister Rafik Hariri.

Senior officials predict that strong tensions between Israel and Lebanon will return if Hezbollah is charged with the 2005 Hariri assassination, Israeli radio said.

Israeli military Chief of Staff Gaby Ashkenazy said during a visit to Canada last week that Hezbollah may try to stage a coup in Lebanon if handed responsibility for Hariri’s death.

“There is a real possibility that Hezbollah will take control of Lebanon,” Ashkenazi warned.

Hezbollah has accused the international court of being politicized and working for Israel.

No statement was issued to conclude the meeting which was attended by Israeli intelligence agency heads.