Erdogan: Destruction in Gaza Costs $100 Billion, Israel Must Pay

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated on Monday that the financial cost of destruction in Gaza is estimated at $100 billion, blaming Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government for the damage, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency

Speaking at the Türkiye-Malaysia Strategic Cooperation in the New Century meeting in Kuala Lumpur alongside Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Erdogan emphasized that Israel must be held accountable and that the reconstruction of Gaza should begin.

"Instead of seeking a place for displaced Gazans, Netanyahu should find a way to cover the $100 billion in damage he caused," Erdogan said. He also insisted that homes and lands seized by Israel and settlers must be returned to their rightful Palestinian owners, adding that a second Nakba would not be allowed.

Erdogan further called for a new global order to address economic, diplomatic, and security challenges, stressing that a trust-based system valuing diversity is a necessity.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised Türkiye for its growing geopolitical influence and national consciousness.