Paris: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that the responsibility for the reconstruction and administration of Gaza should rest with the Palestinians. His remarks came after a meeting held in Paris, attended by senior diplomats from Europe, the Arab world, and other partner countries, discussing the future transition in the enclave. Fidan expressed concerns regarding the potential for renewed conflict initiated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan underscored the importance of Palestinian management in Gaza's reconstruction and administration, emphasizing the need for Palestinian-controlled security forces. He highlighted the international community's ongoing efforts to prevent further conflict and noted the emergence of hope to halt the violence that has plagued Gaza for two years. Under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's leadership, Trkiye has been actively involved in international initiatives and has coordinated efforts with the Islamic world and other partners.
Fidan discussed the international community's role in supporting this process, involving civil society organizations and government institutions. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made and the shared hope for an end to the suffering of Palestinians. The minister outlined the first-phase implementation plan, which includes achieving a ceasefire, releasing hostages and detainees, delivering uninterrupted humanitarian aid, and withdrawing Israeli forces to specified lines. Trkiye will participate in the plan's execution.
Serious outcomes from the Paris meeting will inform important decisions, with European ministers expected to relay these observations to their respective governments. Fidan emphasized the two-state solution as central to resolving the conflict and warned against reverting to pre-Oct. 7, 2023, conditions in Gaza, which he described as an "open-air prison" subject to Israeli control and restrictions.
Fidan also mentioned a task force, comprising the United States, Egypt, Trkiye, and Qatar, which will facilitate discussions and mediate between Palestinian and Israeli parties. He asserted that Trkiye's historical, cultural, and religious ties with Palestine, alongside its moral obligation to oppose oppression, drive its commitment to the issue.
Under President Erdogan's leadership, Trkiye aims to fulfill its responsibilities and contribute constructively to international efforts. Fidan expressed optimism that the cooperation models developed will foster solutions for both the Islamic world and the broader region, emphasizing the importance of action over mere ideas.
Fidan concluded by highlighting the newfound understanding among actors in the Islamic world that collective efforts can lead to meaningful change. He expressed confidence that the new spirit introduced by Trkiye will be instrumental in resolving the Palestinian issue and other regional challenges, while also addressing the unreliability of Netanyahu in peace negotiations.