Turkish FM: Netanyahu is a criminal who poses a threat to the region and the international community

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan sharply attacked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, describing him as a "murderer" and a perpetrator of "genocide," in the latest escalation of Turkish rhetoric towards Israel. Fidan’s statements came in Istanbul on the sidelines of the first meeting of the Mecca Defense Agreement between Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia.

According to the official Turkish news agency "Anadolu," Fidan said that Netanyahu "has become a common enemy of humanity, the international community, and global security," adding that he should not be taken seriously at the current stage.

The Turkish Foreign Minister called on the international community to take practical steps against Netanyahu, warning that what he described as the Israeli threat is not limited to Turkey, but extends to global security. He said, "Thinking that this is only Turkey’s problem is a big mistake."

Fidan also called on international powers to take action to stop Netanyahu, considering that the continuation of what he described as "genocide" poses a danger to the region, Israel, the Jewish people, and the entire world.

Fidan's statements come in the context of a continuous escalation in Turkey's stance toward Israel, as Ankara has recently taken a series of political and economic measures, including imposing trade restrictions and supporting legal actions against Israel in international courts.

The meeting of the defense alliance in Istanbul, which brings together Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, is seen as an additional platform for Ankara to enhance its diplomatic moves in the region and coordinate its positions with its partners on regional issues.