In a significant move, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday signed Sweden's NATO accession protocol, subsequently forwarding it to the Turkish parliament, news agency Anadolu reported citing a statement by Türkiye's Communications Directorate. Finland and Sweden submitted their applications for NATO membership shortly after Russia initiated military actions in Ukraine in February 2022.


While Türkiye had previously granted approval for Finland's NATO membership, the nation had conditioned its support on Sweden's adherence to a trilateral memorandum signed in June 2022 in Madrid. This memorandum aimed to address Ankara's security concerns.


Notably, Turkish leaders, including President Erdogan, have consistently emphasised that the potential NATO accession of Sweden lies within the purview of the Turkish parliament.


For NATO, a longstanding alliance of over 70 years, any new members must receive approval from all current member nations, including Türkiye.


ALSO READ | Explained: Why Turkey Backing Sweden's Nato Bid Is Important And What Took Long


Erdogan Meets NATO Secretary-General To Discuss Israel-Hamas War


In another important development, Turkish President Erdogan and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Saturday engaged in discussions about the ongoing situation in Gaza during a recent telephone conversation, as confirmed by Türkiye's Communications Directorate, Anadolu reported. Their conversation also encompassed strategies to prevent human rights violations amid the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the continued delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza's civilians.


President Erdogan raised concerns about Western nations' stances contributing to human rights violations in Gaza. He underscored the potential irreparable consequences of countries failing to intervene in Israel's actions, Anadolu's report mentioned. Moreover, Erdogan stressed the need for immediate global action to address the humanitarian crises occurring in plain sight but often overlooked.


In response, Jens Stoltenberg highlighted that he and Erdogan discussed counterterrorism efforts and the situation in the Middle East. They shared a mutual commitment to combating terrorism and safeguarding civilian populations. Stoltenberg also welcomed the provision of emergency aid to Gaza, the report mentioned.


Notably, the conflict in Gaza began with Palestinian resistance group Hamas initiating Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multifaceted attack in retaliation for events at the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Israeli settler violence. This conflict continues to be a matter of international concern, with humanitarian aid delivery and human rights at the forefront of discussions.


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