ANKARA: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has initiated discussions with Hamas for the release of Israeli hostages captured by the Palestinian resistance group during a recent attack, Western media reported on Wednesday.
A senior Turkish official, speaking on the condition of anonymity told media that President Erdogan had directed the negotiations.
Turkey, has historical ties with Hamas, is now engaged in diplomatic efforts to mediate the release of the Israelis.
President Erdogan has been discussing the recent situation of Gaza with regional leaders. He expressed Ankara’s willingness to mediate and facilitate the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian crisis during his recent conversations with regional leaders.
The Turkish official told media that the Turkey was negotiating about the civilian prisoners held by Hamas. However, he did not disclose any further details regarding the talks.
Turkey always supported Palestinian cause
Turkey has always supported the Palestinian cause and called for for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As the conflict in the region escalates, Turkey has urged for restraint and stressed the need to protect civilians on both sides.
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Ankara has also expressed the concerns about the possibility of the conflict to spread further, saying that the key to regional peace lies in the independent state of Palestinian.
President Erdogan has strongly denounced Israel’s operation in Gaza, terming it as a massacre. He lamented at Gaza blockade which has disrupted essential services such as water and electricity in the area.
