Ankara: The Turkish intelligence chief and Hamas Political Bureau officials have agreed to continue pursuing a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. Ibrahim Kalin, head of the Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT), engaged in a phone conversation with Hamas Political Bureau officials, as reported by security sources.

According to Anadolu Agency, the talks focused on progress in ongoing negotiations with Israel, and both parties committed to maintaining efforts toward achieving a cease-fire. U.S. officials have indicated that a deal may be imminent. Turkey is a significant international advocate for the Palestinian cause and supports cease-fire initiatives in Gaza.

Discussions around a prisoner swap and cease-fire, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S., have faced disruptions due to new conditions imposed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Israeli opposition and families of captives have accused Netanyahu of hindering efforts to finalize a Gaza cease-fire and prisoner exchange agreement with Hamas.

The Israeli military continues its offensive in Gaza, resulting in nearly 46,600 deaths, predominantly affecting women and children since October 7, 2023, despite a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions in the enclave.