Turkey has taken an active role in efforts to mediate the Gaza conflict, positioning itself as both a critic of Israel and a facilitator for peace talks. President Tayyip Erdogan said that US President Donald Trump has specifically asked Turkey to engage with Hamas to encourage the group to support his plan to end the war in Gaza. Turkish officials have been communicating directly with Hamas, explaining the steps necessary for Palestine to move forward with commitment and stability.
Turkey’s involvement comes amid its strong condemnation of Israel’s offensive, which it has labeled a genocide. In response, Ankara has halted all trade with Israel, called for international measures against the Israeli government, and reiterated its demand for a two-state solution. Turkish negotiators have been active in Egypt, particularly in Sharm el-Sheikh, alongside Trump’s envoys, to facilitate discussions on ceasefire terms and potential prisoner exchanges. Hamas, in turn, has exchanged lists of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners to be released under a proposed swap deal, showing optimism about the ongoing talks.
Erdogan emphasized that while discussions include post-war security arrangements, troop deployments, and aid delivery mechanisms, the immediate priority is a full ceasefire and the rebuilding of Gaza. Turkey is prepared to contribute to these post-conflict efforts, asserting that Gaza must remain part of a Palestinian state and be governed by Palestinians. The country’s intelligence chief, Ibrahim Kalin, who was involved in previous negotiations in Doha, is playing a key role in coordinating these talks in Egypt.
By acting as an intermediary, Turkey seeks to balance its support for Palestinian rights with active engagement in the peace process, leveraging its diplomatic influence to both advocate for Gaza and help broker a resolution acceptable to all parties involved.
