ISTANBUL/ANKARA – In a powerful statement on Thursday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that the reconstruction and governance of Gaza must unequivocally be led by Palestinians, warning against the risk of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reigniting conflict in the region. Fidan’s remarks came following a high-level meeting in Paris, where senior diplomats from Europe, the Arab world, and other partner nations convened to discuss the future of Gaza and the steps toward a sustainable transition in the war-torn enclave.
Speaking to the press, Fidan underscored the centrality of Palestinian self-governance in any plan for Gaza’s future. “The reconstruction and administration of Gaza should be managed by the Palestinians, with security forces controlled by the Palestinians, and there should be no doubt about this—none at all,” he declared. His comments reflect Türkiye’s longstanding position on the Palestinian issue and its advocacy for a resolution that prioritizes Palestinian autonomy and dignity.
The Paris meeting, which brought together representatives from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Arab League, and the European Union, marked a significant moment in international efforts to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Fidan described the discussions as productive, noting that they focused on the implementation of a recently agreed-upon first-phase plan aimed at halting the violence and addressing the immediate needs of Gaza’s population. “Yesterday was very important. A hope has emerged to stop the genocide in Gaza that has been going on for two years,” Fidan said, referring to the devastating conflict that has claimed countless lives and left Gaza in ruins.
Fidan highlighted Türkiye’s role in galvanizing international support for the Palestinian cause, crediting the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. “From the very beginning, under the leadership of our President, Türkiye has made tremendous international efforts. Through this process, we have developed a system and culture of intensifying and coordinating our joint efforts with the Islamic world and other partners,” he explained. He emphasized that Türkiye has worked tirelessly to mobilize both governmental and non-governmental actors, including civil society organizations, to contribute to the global push for peace and reconstruction in Gaza.
The first-phase implementation plan, as outlined by Fidan, rests on four key pillars: achieving a ceasefire, securing the release of hostages and detainees, ensuring the immediate and uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid, and facilitating the withdrawal of Israeli forces to designated lines. “These are the components of the agreed first-phase plan, and they must be followed with great precision,” Fidan stressed, noting that Türkiye will play an active role in overseeing the plan’s execution, as stipulated in the agreement.
International Collaboration and the Two-State Solution
The Paris meeting provided a platform for in-depth discussions on how the international community, particularly European nations, can support Gaza’s economic recovery, reconstruction, and administrative revival. Fidan described the outcomes of the meeting as “serious” and foundational for future decision-making. “Together, we thoroughly examined the results of yesterday’s agreement and how it will be implemented, especially how the Europeans and the rest of the international community can play a role,” he said. He expressed confidence that the European ministers in attendance would bring these insights back to their respective capitals, paving the way for concrete actions.
A central theme of the discussions was the reaffirmation of the two-state solution as the cornerstone of a lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Fidan welcomed the growing international consensus on this approach, noting that it is “pleasing that everyone has accepted it as playing a central role in the resolution of the problem.” However, he cautioned against efforts to restore Gaza to its pre-October 7, 2023, conditions, which he described as akin to an “open-air prison.” Prior to the escalation of violence on that date, Gaza faced severe restrictions on trade, movement, and economic activity, all tightly controlled by Israel. Fidan warned that returning to such conditions would only sow the seeds for future conflict. “If the reconstruction of Gaza and the implementation of plans will bring Gaza back to the pre-Oct. 7, 2023 conditions, then that means we will face another war in the future,” he said.
To ensure the effective implementation of the ceasefire and reconstruction plans, a task force comprising the United States, Egypt, Türkiye, and Qatar has been established. Fidan explained that this team will serve as a mediator, facilitating dialogue between the Palestinian and Israeli sides and addressing any challenges that arise during the implementation process. “This team will play a facilitative role in following up on the agreed matters, especially discussing issues with both parties,” he said, adding that the mediators would step in to provide practical solutions as needed. While the task force’s responsibilities are not yet fully defined, Fidan emphasized its importance in maintaining momentum and resolving disputes.
Türkiye’s Moral and Historical Commitment
Fidan underscored Türkiye’s deep-rooted commitment to the Palestinian cause, which he said is driven by a combination of spiritual, historical, cultural, and moral factors. “The presence of Al-Aqsa Mosque is spiritually very important for us. Our historical, cultural, and religious ties with the Palestinian people are extremely significant,” he said. Beyond these ties, Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s broader stance against oppression, stating, “Most importantly, regardless of belief or ethnicity, Türkiye’s moral stance against the oppression of humans by other humans is crucial.”
Under President Erdogan’s leadership, Türkiye has positioned itself as a key player in international efforts to address the Palestinian issue. Fidan stressed that Türkiye’s contributions are not about seeking credit but about fulfilling its responsibilities to history, its people, and the pursuit of justice. He expressed optimism that the cooperation models developed through these efforts could serve as a blueprint for resolving not only the Palestinian issue but also other regional challenges. “I believe that this new spirit put forth by Türkiye will play a significant role not only in solving the Palestinian issue but also in resolving other regional problems,” he said.
Fidan also highlighted the growing unity and agency within the Islamic world, noting that the Paris meeting demonstrated the power of collective action. “When we come together, we can make things happen. In fact, some things are not our fate. They only require more willpower, more effort, more professionalism, and more independent thinking,” he said. This newfound sense of purpose and coordination, he argued, could reshape the region’s future.
Concerns Over Netanyahu’s Intentions
Despite the optimism surrounding the ceasefire agreement, Fidan cautioned that challenges lie ahead, particularly given Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s track record. “So far, Netanyahu has a record, and we know how unreliable he is, especially when it comes to peace,” Fidan said. He warned that Israel might attempt to reimpose war, particularly after the issue of hostages is resolved, leaving Israel with fewer justifications for continued aggression. “The international community is currently on alert,” he added, stressing the need for vigilance to prevent a return to violence.
Fidan acknowledged that setbacks are likely during the implementation phase, describing them as part of the “nature of the situation.” However, he urged resilience in the face of potential obstacles. “One should not fall into despair,” he said, emphasizing that Türkiye would continue to work professionally and in coordination with its partners to address challenges as they arise.
A Call for Lasting Change
Fidan’s remarks reflect Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Palestinian people and advocating for a just and sustainable resolution to the conflict. By emphasizing Palestinian-led governance, economic independence, and the two-state solution, Türkiye is pushing for a future in which Gaza is not only rebuilt but also empowered to thrive free from external control. The Paris meeting and the agreements reached there represent a critical step forward, but Fidan’s warnings about potential obstacles underscore the fragility of the current moment.
As the international community moves toward implementing the first-phase plan, Türkiye’s role as a mediator and advocate will be crucial. Fidan’s vision of a “new spirit” of cooperation and determination offers hope not only for Gaza but for the broader region, where longstanding conflicts have often seemed intractable. For now, the focus remains on securing a ceasefire, delivering aid, and laying the groundwork for a future in which Palestinians can determine their own destiny—a future that, in Fidan’s words, must not repeat the mistakes of the past.
