Türkiye

President Erdoğan: Those Who Disrespected Our Flag Will Be Held Accountable

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said those responsible for acts targeting the Turkish flag will be identified and punished. Speaking at his party’s parliamentary group meeting, Erdoğan also addressed the economy, Syria, counterterrorism efforts, and recent diplomatic contacts.

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Newstimehub

21 Jan, 2026

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President and AK Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered remarks at the Justice and Development Party’s (AK Party) Parliamentary Group Meeting at the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM), addressing key domestic and international issues.

Referring to incidents involving the Turkish flag, Erdoğan stated, “We will certainly find those dirty hands that reached out to our flag, and we will definitely hold those traitors accountable.” He added that relevant ministries have launched investigations and that all individuals found to be negligent or at fault will face the necessary legal consequences.

On the economy, Erdoğan said Türkiye aims to advance not only economically but also militarily and diplomatically. He emphasized that as the Turkish economy grows in line with national goals, the additional value created will benefit all segments of society. Erdoğan noted that the country is entering a period in which the sacrifices made by the nation over the years will prove to have not been in vain.

Addressing developments in Syria, Erdoğan reiterated that Türkiye would not tolerate any separatist structure along its southern borders that could threaten national security. He stressed that Türkiye has consistently supported Syria’s territorial integrity and political unity, advocating for the existence of a single, unified Syrian state. Erdoğan also welcomed the recent ceasefire agreement, expressing hope for a permanent solution without further bloodshed.

Highlighting the distinction between terrorist organizations and Kurdish citizens, Erdoğan said, “Terrorist organizations are separate from my Kurdish brothers and sisters.” He underlined that no one has the right to place the will of Kurdish people under tutelage and that stability in Syria would benefit Syrian Kurds the most.

Erdoğan also warned that Türkiye is going through a highly sensitive period regionally and globally, calling on politicians and members of the media to act responsibly and to avoid fueling hatred, particularly on social media platforms.

Regarding foreign policy, President Erdoğan said he had a productive phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump. According to Erdoğan, the discussion covered several issues, including joint efforts against Daesh (ISIS) and matters related to contributing to security in Syria.

Source: AA