Erdogan Condemns Gaza Conflict as 'Ecocide' at Climate Summit

At the United Nations-backed climate summit, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday used the term 'ecocide' to describe Israel's military campaign in Gaza, drawing sharp rebukes from Israeli officials. Erdogan's remarks come amid international scrutiny of the conflict's environmental and civilian impact, though the Turkish leader stopped short of elaborating specific environmental claims during the address.

Israel has dismissed characterisations of its military operations in Gaza, with officials arguing the country has taken measures to minimise civilian casualties and operates within international law. The Israeli government has previously faced accusations from international bodies regarding its conduct in the territory, though it contests findings it deems politically motivated.

The exchange underscores the deep divisions that persist among nations regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with environmental concerns now forming part of the broader debate. At multilateral forums like climate conferences, geopolitical tensions increasingly surface alongside discussions of environmental policy, complicating consensus-building efforts.

The COP31 climate summit had been expected to focus on global emissions reduction targets and climate adaptation strategies. However, the intervention by Erdogan demonstrates how regional conflicts continue to shape discourse at international gatherings, particularly among nations with vocal positions on Middle Eastern affairs.