Ankara: Israel is still failing to meet its obligations on Gaza aid delivery, while the Palestinian side has taken a constructive approach, including efforts for hostage releases and the return of bodies, said Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Friday. Speaking at a joint news conference with his Romanian counterpart Oana Toiu, Fidan highlighted the fragile nature of the current ceasefire and expressed concerns over Israel's non-compliance with its terms.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan emphasized that the continuation of the Gaza ceasefire is critically important. He accused the Israeli administration and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of not believing in the fundamental objectives of the ceasefire. Despite Israel's shortcomings, Fidan noted that the Palestinian side continues to honor the terms of the ceasefire with maturity, even as humanitarian aid deliveries remain stalled.
Fidan reported that most trucks entering Gaza carry commercial goods instead of humanitarian assistance, leaving urgent needs unmet. He called for immediate action to address this issue and praised the efforts of Trkiye's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the Turkish Red Crescent, and NGOs in attempting to deliver aid. He also mentioned the active role of the Turkish Foreign Ministry's Humanitarian Aid Coordination Office in overcoming logistical and diplomatic obstacles.
Efforts for a sustainable Gaza ceasefire are underway, including a potential UN Security Council resolution. Fidan shared that Trkiye has been engaging in intensive diplomatic efforts and consultations with international partners to ensure a permanent peace framework. He underscored the importance of not wasting the historic opportunity for peace and avoiding past mistakes.
Fidan also highlighted Trkiye's role in discussing Gaza's reconstruction with international partners and maintaining dialogue with Palestinian group Hamas. He expressed optimism about a possible UN resolution that could advance peace and facilitate Gaza's reconstruction.
Fidan further discussed the strengthening Turkish-Romanian partnership across various sectors, emphasizing the strategic partnership established in 2011 and ongoing cooperation in defense, energy, and trade. He noted the significance of Romania as a key regional partner and highlighted the growing bilateral trade volume, with a target of increasing it to $15 billion.
Fidan also addressed the importance of the Black Sea region for Turkish-Romanian cooperation, particularly in light of regional security challenges posed by the Russia-Ukraine war. He reiterated Ankara's appreciation for Romania's support in Trkiye's EU membership process and stressed the need for new momentum in EU-Trkiye relations.
Fidan concluded by mentioning Trkiye's ongoing diplomatic efforts regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, expressing hope for a negotiated settlement and a just and lasting peace in the region.