ISTANBUL: Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh began talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on Saturday as tensions escalate in the Middle East, Turkish media reported.
Erdogan has sought to establish a foothold as a mediator in the Palestinian conflict that has roiled the region since October 7, with a reported Israeli attack on Iran and the besieged Gaza Strip bracing for a new Israeli offensive.
The meeting, which took place at the historic Dolmabahce palace along the Bosphorus, began shortly after 2:30 pm (1130 GMT).
Erdogan emphasized the significance of addressing the Gaza conflict during the talks. The Palestinian resistance group Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by Israel, the United States, and the European Union, has maintained an office in Turkey since 2011.
Erdogan’s longstanding ties with Haniyeh underscore Turkey’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause. Previously, Erdogan had condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and likened them to tactics employed by Nazi Germany. Historically, Turkey remains a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s recent visit to Doha signals Ankara’s continued pursuit of a role in facilitating peace negotiations.
However, experts suggest that Erdogan’s outspoken criticism of Israel may limit Turkey’s influence in mediating the conflict.
