Efforts to address Gaza must align with Egypt’s plan: FM Fidan
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan participates in Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Arab League Gaza Contact Group Ministerial Committee Meeting in Cairo, Egypt on March 23, 2025. (AA Photo)
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called for intensified efforts on Gaza, urging support for Egypt’s plan, diplomatic sources revealed on Sunday.
Speaking at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Arab League Gaza Contact Group meeting in Cairo, Fidan emphasized the ongoing genocide, forced displacement, and apartheid in Gaza, highlighting the urgency of addressing these issues through a constructive framework backed by all OIC members.
Fidan criticized Israel’s continued airstrikes, citing the March 18 attacks as evidence of a more comprehensive expansionist agenda.
He noted that the blockade on humanitarian aid and the targeting of Syrian and Lebanese territories further demonstrate Israel’s commitment to this policy.
Halting Gaza destruction is the priority
“Peace is not possible in the region without stopping Israel,” Fidan asserted, stressing that the main priority should be halting the destruction in Gaza and achieving a permanent ceasefire.
He also urged the international community to increase pressure on Israel and to utilize platforms like the U.N. to push for immediate action.
Fidan’s remarks follow an emergency Arab summit on March 4, where Egypt’s $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza was adopted. The proposal, which aims to rebuild the Gaza Strip without displacing Palestinians, stands in stark contrast to U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial plan, which had been widely rejected as an attempt at ethnic cleansing disguised as development.
