Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan engaged in discussions with regional counterparts on Saturday to address the ongoing clashes between Israel and Palestinians, according to a source from the foreign ministry. Ankara expressed its willingness to contribute to de-escalating the situation.
The source indicated that Fidan conferred about the conflict with counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, Palestine, and Egypt. However, no additional details regarding the discussions were provided.
Prior to this, Turkey’s foreign ministry reiterated President Tayyip Erdogan’s call for restraint and strongly condemned the tragic loss of civilian lives during the conflict.
“We emphasize that acts of violence and any escalation are detrimental to all parties involved,” the ministry stated, also advising residents in the region to remain in secure indoor locations.
The ministry further expressed Turkey’s readiness to provide any necessary assistance to prevent further escalation and to bring the situation under control without it spreading to neighboring areas. They emphasized their ongoing extensive contacts with relevant stakeholders.
This development occurs as Turkey, which has historically supported the Palestinian cause and advocated for a two-state solution, works towards normalizing its relations with Israel following years of strained ties. In 2018, both countries expelled each other’s ambassadors, and they often clashed over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, a regional diplomatic effort launched by Ankara in 2020 paved the way for improved relations and the reinstatement of diplomatic envoys.
Israel had previously voiced concerns about Turkey hosting leaders of Hamas, which Turkey does not categorize as a terrorist organization.
Before the outbreak of violence on Saturday, President Erdogan had hinted at the possibility of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visiting Turkey in October or November to discuss energy cooperation. Additionally, Turkey’s energy minister expressed plans to visit Israel in November.
