Saudi Arabia offers condolences to Turkiye after fatal military plane crash claims 20 soldiers
Riyadh – Saudi Arabia has extended its condolences to Turkiye following a tragic military plane crash in eastern Georgia that claimed the lives of 20 Turkish soldiers.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Wednesday evening expressing the Kingdom’s sympathy and solidarity with the government and people of Turkiye during this difficult time.
According to the statement reported by the Saudi Press Agency, Saudi Arabia conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery for any injured personnel. The message underscored the Kingdom’s support for Turkiye and its people in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Ankara confirmed that a Turkish Air Force C-130 military transport aircraft crashed in Georgia’s Sighnaghi municipality, near the Azerbaijani border, while en route from Azerbaijan to Turkiye. Officials said the incident occurred during a routine flight, and all 20 soldiers on board were killed.
The crash represents the deadliest incident involving Turkish military personnel since 2020, when 33 soldiers lost their lives during combat operations in Syria. The latest accident has sparked an outpouring of condolences from countries around the world, including Saudi Arabia, which emphasized its deep sorrow over the loss of lives.
Turkish authorities said investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that poor weather conditions and possible technical failures may have contributed to the accident, though officials have not yet issued a final statement.
Rescue teams and investigators were immediately deployed to the crash site, located in a mountainous area of eastern Georgia. Local emergency services worked alongside Turkish officials to recover bodies and secure the wreckage of the aircraft.
The Georgian authorities also expressed condolences and pledged full cooperation with Turkish investigators. The crash has prompted discussions on regional air safety and the risks faced by military personnel operating across international routes.
Saudi Arabia’s gesture of solidarity reflects its commitment to supporting allied and friendly nations during humanitarian crises. The Kingdom has often been among the first to offer condolences and humanitarian assistance following natural disasters and tragic events affecting partner countries.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that the Kingdom stands with Turkiye during this moment of grief, reaffirming the strong ties between the two nations. Relations between Riyadh and Ankara have strengthened in recent years through mutual cooperation in diplomacy, trade, and regional security initiatives.
Turkiye’s Ministry of National Defense announced that national mourning would be observed for the fallen soldiers, and flags were flown at half-mast across military institutions. A formal investigation team, including representatives from the Air Force and aviation safety units, has been tasked with reviewing the flight’s maintenance records and operational data.
The C-130 aircraft, commonly used for transport and logistics operations, has a long history of service in many countries’ military fleets. Turkish defense officials stated that the plane was undergoing a scheduled return flight when communication with ground control was lost shortly before the crash.
International condolences have poured in from various governments and organizations, recognizing the sacrifices of the Turkish military personnel who died in service. Saudi Arabia’s message of support joins those from global partners who have expressed their sympathies and shared in Turkiye’s mourning.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by military service members during transport and training missions, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures and modernized aircraft systems to prevent similar tragedies.
As Turkiye holds memorial ceremonies for the victims, global attention remains focused on the investigation and the country’s response efforts. Saudi Arabia’s expression of compassion and unity underscores the enduring partnership and mutual respect between the two nations.
