Erdogan: I will go to Gaza first, then you will

(Patria) - President of the Republic of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated on Saturday that he plans to be the first world leader to visit Gaza after the recently reached ceasefire between Hamas and Israel.

Speaking at a session of his Justice and Development Party (AK Party) in his hometown of Rize, Erdoğan called the agreement a "bittersweet step towards peace," expressing hope that it would bring lasting stability to the Palestinian territories.

We fully support any project that will permanently stop the massacre and genocide that has been happening in Gaza for two years. Israel must respect the signed agreement and cease aggressive policies towards the region that threaten the security of its own citizens as well," the Turkish president said.

Erdoğan described the ceasefire as a moment of relief for the residents of Gaza after months of destruction, and emphasized that Turkey has high hopes that the new agreement will bring peace, calm, and security to both Gaza and other Palestinian areas.

During the speech, calls of support for Palestine echoed from the hall, to which Erdoğan responded with the words: "I will go to Gaza first, then you will." That statement caused enthusiasm among those present – everyone stood up and greeted his announcement with a long applause.

The Turkish leader also reiterated that Israel must respect the terms of the truce and cease activities that threaten the security of the entire region. He praised Hamas for, as he said, a "very thoughtful stance" in agreeing to the truce, and emphasized that Turkey will continue to support the Palestinian people in their struggle for freedom and dignity.

Smiles have reappeared in Gaza, albeit bittersweet, after the horror of genocide. I greet Palestine and the Palestinians on my behalf," added Erdoğan, whose words were met with strong applause from the assembled members and sympathizers of the AK Party.

His statements come at a time when Ankara announced that Turkey will participate in an international working group that will monitor the implementation of the ceasefire plan, and offer technical assistance to stabilize the situation in Gaza.