UNITED NATIONS : Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan used his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday to call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, warning that world leaders who remain silent in the face of Israel’s assault are complicit in “barbarity.”

“We cannot continue with this madness any more,” Erdogan said in his speech. “We have to have a ceasefire in Gaza as soon as possible. Attacks should stop. Humanitarian aid should be able to enter with no obstacles.”

The Turkish leader urged governments to act with courage rather than indifference, adding that those he accused of committing genocide must be held accountable.

“Everyone who is keeping silent is an accomplice to this barbarity,” he told delegates, appealing to world leaders “to stand firm alongside the oppressed Palestinians and alongside humanity.”

Erdogan also questioned the hesitation of some states to take a firmer stand, saying: “Why are your people back home reacting to the barbarity in Gaza? Show courage to take action here. Fulfil your humanitarian duty towards Gaza where children are raising children.”

Erdogan has been one of the most vocal critics of Israel’s offensive, which has drawn widespread condemnation across the region amid mounting civilian casualties.

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