Devlet Bahçeli, leader of the far-right Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), on Tuesday condemned the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), asserting it does not represent Kurdish citizens, and called for “national unity against terrorism”. Speaking at his party’s parliamentary group meeting, he also dismissed claims of discord with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reaffirming the strength of their alliance.
“Let us come together as one nation. Unity and cooperation are the keys to overcoming our challenges,” Bahçeli said, accusing external forces, particularly the United States, of enabling separatism. He stressed that the PKK had no legitimacy in representing Kurdish people and urged collective action to eliminate threats to the nation’s stability.
Rejecting reports of division within the ruling coalition, Bahçeli declared, “Our bond with the President is firm. There is no division within our alliance.” He described the partnership as essential for national unity and the country’s future.
In regional affairs, Bahçeli criticised Israel’s military operations in Gaza and Beirut, calling them “barbaric” and demanding international accountability. He announced that Turkey had ceased all trade with Israel in response to the escalating violence.
Domestically, Bahçeli backed the Defence Ministry over an investigation into a recent ceremonial incident involving military officers. He called for respect towards institutional decisions and warned against politicising such matters.
He also addressed the tragic deaths of five children in a fire, stressing the importance of prioritising child protection. “The state’s role extends beyond material aid. It must ensure emotional support and safeguard future generations,” he said.
Bahçeli closed his speech by calling for unity, stating, “There is no alternative to our shared future. Together, we can confront any challenge with strength and resolve.”
