Turkey's Erdogan Denounces US And UK Strikes In Yemen, Warns Of Escalating Tensions

By Adeyemi Adekunle

While Addressing the press after prayers on Friday in Istanbul, President Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey vehemently opposed the recent military actions undertaken by the United States and Britain in Yemen.

The overnight air and sea strikes, a response to the Iran-backed Houthi forces’ assaults on Red Sea shipping, drew sharp criticism from Erdogan, who characterized them as an unwarranted and disproportionate use of force.

Erdogan declared, “What we witness is nothing but a disproportionate use of force.” He went on to express concern, stating, “They are attempting to transform the Red Sea into a sea of blood.

Yemen, aligning with the Houthis and leveraging its full force, asserts that it will deliver the necessary response in the region to the United States and Britain.”

As a member of NATO, Turkey has traditionally aligned itself with Yemen’s internationally recognized government.

Ankara has been a proponent of the United Nations-led peace process aimed at reconciling the Yemeni government and the Houthi rebels, who have secured control over a substantial part of the nation.

While Turkey has previously condemned Houthi missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, Erdogan disclosed that Ankara had received intelligence from diverse sources indicating the Houthis’ effective defense and response against the United States and Britain.

In a nuanced observation, he highlighted Iran’s contemplation of self-protection amid the unfolding developments.

This incident not only underscores Turkey’s steadfast position in regional conflicts but also reveals a complex diplomatic landscape as nations grapple with the intricate web of alliances and allegiances.

Erdogan’s strong objections underscore the delicate balance Turkey maintains, advocating for peace while navigating the intricate geopolitical chessboard in the Middle East.