In a recent statement, Turkish President Erdogan has challenged conventional perceptions by stating that he does not view Hamas as a terrorist organization, as reported by Globe Eye News.
His statements came during a recent interview, where he expressed his stance towards the Palestinian group.
"I don't see Hamas as a terrorist organization. I see Hamas as people who are fighting to protect their land and their people," President Erdogan declared.
Erdogan's statement opposed the stance of numerous countries and international bodies, including the United States, the European Union, and Israel, which officially designed Hamas as a terrorist entity.
Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist organization, has been involved in numerous conflicts and acts of violence in the region, including suicide bombings, rocket attacks, and armed confrontations with Israeli forces.
Its tactics and objectives have led many nations to categorize it as a terrorist group.
The Turkish President's statements has brought debate and criticism from countries that consider Hamas a threat to regional stability and peace efforts in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Erdogan's vocal support for the group connects with Turkey's general foreign policy objectives, which have increasingly stated solidarity with Muslim and Arab causes in the Middle East.
Turkey has sought to position itself as a champion of Palestinian rights, frequently condemning Israeli actions in the occupied territories and providing humanitarian assistance to Palestinians.
Erdogan's latest comments signal his government's continued support for Hamas and its resistance against what he perceives as Israeli occupation and oppression.