German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan engaged in a heated exchange over the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict during their meeting in Berlin on Friday. The leaders, who have differing views on the issue, discussed several hot-button topics during their visit, including Israel's right to self-defense and the role of Hamas.

President Erdogan, on his first visit to Germany since 2020, condemned Israel's offensive in Gaza, referring to Hamas militants as "liberators." However, Chancellor Scholz emphasized that Israel's right to exist was irrefutable and defended the country's actions, stating that they were in line with human rights and international law.

During the joint press conference, the German Chancellor stressed that Israel's right to self-defense should not be questioned. While acknowledging the differences in their views, Scholz also made it clear that there was no place for antisemitism in Germany, regardless of its origin or motivation.

The Israeli offensive in Gaza, aimed at rooting out Hamas in response to terror attacks, remains a major point of contention between Germany and Turkey. Hamas is considered a terrorist organization by Israel, Germany, the United States, and the European Union.

President Erdogan urged Germany to join Turkey in calling for a cease-fire in Gaza, suggesting it could lead to a resolution. However, Chancellor Scholz maintained that their disagreement on the Israel-Hamas conflict persisted.

The meeting also touched upon other important topics, including the potential accession of Sweden to the NATO military alliance. Erdogan's government had previously objected to Sweden's bid due to its alleged association with terror groups. While Erdogan has dropped his objections, the ratification of a bill for Swedish NATO membership is still pending in Turkey's parliament.

Migration was another key issue discussed during the talks. The European Union views Turkey as a crucial partner in addressing the challenge of managing arrivals at the bloc's external borders.

With municipal elections approaching in Turkey early next year, Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) aims to regain control of Ankara and Istanbul, the country's most populous city.

The meeting between Chancellor Scholz and President Erdogan showcased the differences in their positions on the Israel-Hamas conflict, as well as other critical topics. Despite the disagreements, both leaders expressed the importance of maintaining dialogue and finding common ground on various issues of mutual concern.