In Paris, Erdogan continues criticism of Israeli policies

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday continued his criticism of Israel, calling the Jewish state the main threat to peace in the Middle East. Speaking to reporters in Paris, where he was on a two-day visit, Erdogan said if a country uses excessive force and phosphorus bombs in Gaza, then Turkey cannot praise this but will call it to account. "The main threat to regional peace is Israel," Erdogan said, adding that nearly 1,500 people died in the late 2008-early 2009 operation in Gaza, and branded Israel's justification for the offensive a lie. Erdoğan added that his criticisms are borne out by a UN report by Richard Goldstone accusing Israel of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Gaza operation. Erdogan said his criticism of Israel stems from humanitarian concerns, not his identity as a Muslim, dismissing claims to the contrary. Prior to Erdogan's statement, the Foreign Ministry strongly criticized Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman's remarks comparing Erdogan to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. In a statement, the ministry blasted the comments as "presumptuous and inappropriate, and lacking truth." Urging Israel to act with "common sense," the ministry said Turkey's words and policy towards Israel are shaped by its desire to promote peace and stability in the region. Ankara said Turkey's criticisms will continue if Israel does not avoid activities harmful to regional peace. "The activities of Israel that do not promote the establishment of an atmosphere of trust and the opening of a path leading to lasting peace in the region are condemned and will be criticized," the statement added. According to the statement, calling Erdogan's comments stressing the importance of peace and human rights "extreme" is a grave distortion and an unfair judgment.