Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that the time has come for Turkiye to be included in European defense and security structures. Speaking to journalists aboard his return plane from an official visit to Ethiopia, President Erdogan emphasized Turkiye's potential contributions to the European Union and expressed hope for recognition of Turkiye's role in establishing a solid European security framework.

According to Qatar News Agency, Erdogan reiterated Turkiye's opposition to any military intervention against Iran, emphasizing that a new war would benefit no one and result in regional losses. He also expressed optimism that the Peace Council would promote lasting stability and peace in the Gaza Strip, noting that Turkiye had received an invitation to the upcoming Peace Council meeting in Washington, where Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will represent the country.

In addition, President Erdogan highlighted Turkiye's involvement in guiding the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) towards integration into Syrian state institutions, signaling Turkiye's commitment to facilitating this process.