FM Fidan discusses Gaza crisis with Hamas Chief

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a phone call on Tuesday with Hamas’ political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh to discuss the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and the latest developments in cease-fire negotiations, according to diplomatic sources.

During the conversation, Fidan addressed the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, highlighting the severe hunger and increasing disease outbreaks in northern Gaza. The dialogue also covered the most recent efforts in cease-fire negotiations with Israel.

The situation in Gaza has been dire since an October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, which led to a brutal offensive by Israel. Despite a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire, Israel has continued its operations, drawing widespread international condemnation.

Local health authorities report that more than 38,700 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, have been killed, and over 89,000 injured. The relentless conflict has left vast areas of Gaza in ruins, exacerbated by a crippling blockade restricting food, clean water, and medical supplies.

The International Court of Justice has accused Israel of genocide and recently ordered an immediate halt to its military operations in Rafah. The southern city had become a refuge for over one million Palestinians before it was invaded on May 6.