Erdogan urges Palestinian unity in meeting with Hamas leader in Istanbul

Turkey continues to play a key role in mediating the Gaza war, while Qatar’s involvement in the conflict is being questioned. In an effort to deal with Hamas, Turkey sent its Foreign Minister to Doha, and recently the political leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyah, met with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul. The meeting focused on Israel’s attacks on Palestinian lands and the need for uninterrupted humanitarian aid and a fair and lasting peace process. Erdogan emphasized the importance of unity among all Palestinian factions and parties to ensure stability in the post-conflict scenario. The meeting took place amidst the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, with Erdogan urging the international community to maintain focus on Gaza and calling for the creation of an independent State of Palestine as a solution for permanent peace in the region.

Hamas’ visit to Turkey came shortly after Turkey announced restrictions on exports to Israel, including steel and jet fuel. Despite its criticism of Israel’s actions, it took Turkey more than six months to limit its commercial ties with the country due to growing public discontent. Turkey has historically welcomed Hamas and does not consider it a terrorist organization. However, while much of Turkey’s public opinion supports the Palestinian cause, polls indicate that many do not want the government to get directly involved in the conflict. On another front, a Turkish NGO called IHH, along with international organizations, has organized a flotilla to break the maritime blockade of Gaza and provide humanitarian aid to the enclave. The flotilla, consisting of hundreds of activists from thirty countries, is set to depart from Istanbul in the coming days.