Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Turkey’s most prominent leader in recent decades, has served as president since 2014, following 11 years as prime minister. He spearheaded a series of reforms that transformed Turkey from a parliamentary system into a centralized presidential regime—an overhaul that drew broad criticism for undermining democratic institutions in the country.
In recent years, Erdoğan has faced economic challenges, political pressure from the opposition, and growing international criticism. Still, he continues to maintain a firm hold on power, bolstered by broad public support and control over the state’s institutions.
“I Will Not Run in the 2028 Elections”
During a conversation with journalists on his return flight from Hungary, Erdoğan made clear he has no intention of seeking re-election.
“I’m not interested in being elected again or running for office once more. We want a new constitution not for ourselves, but for Turkey.”
However, when asked about the opposition leader Özgür Özel’s call for early elections, Erdoğan responded: “We will not drag Turkey into such an adventure. There’s no need for that.”
A New Constitution for Turkey
One of the central topics raised in the conversation was the proposal for a new constitution—an initiative promoted by Erdoğan’s ruling party and its coalition partners. He called on the opposition to take part in the process, saying: “If the people need a new constitution, everyone must work together.”
“The West Has Morally Failed in Gaza”
Erdoğan strongly criticized Western countries for their silence regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling it a moral failure and a test in which “the international system has failed.” He said that the West’s silence in the face of “child killings, starvation, and oppression” exposes the hypocrisy of its human rights policies. He emphasized that Turkey would continue to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza and stand up for “human dignity.”
A Possible Meeting with Trump
Erdoğan also referred to a recent Newsweek article that described him as “a key player on multiple fronts and an ally of Trump.” He noted that the article reflects Turkey’s strategic significance on the world stage and highlighted the progress his country has made over the past two decades.
Regarding his relationship with Donald Trump, Erdoğan said he values the strong ties between Turkey and the United States and noted that a meeting with Trump may take place in the near future. According to him, the U.S.-Turkey relationship is built on mutual respect and sincerity.
