BEIRUT: Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, on Tuesday said that Turkey has initiated talks with Hamas, the Palestinian resistance group, regarding the release of foreign hostages currently held in Gaza. Fidan made the statement during a news conference in Beirut alongside his Lebanese counterpart, Abdallah Bou Habib.
According to Fidan, Turkey has received requests from several governments seeking the release of their citizens who were taken hostage during Hamas’s surprise attack on Israel on October 7.
“We have been in touch with the political wing of Hamas to address these issues, particularly concerning the release of foreign nationals. Our efforts are ongoing, and we are committed to securing their safe return. We will continue our efforts to ensure lasting peace,” stated Fidan during the conference.
Turkey’s Diplomatic Efforts for Peace
The Foreign Minister’s remarks followed his phone conversation with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, where they discussed the possible release of the hostages. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, known for his strong support of the Palestinian cause, has intensified diplomatic efforts by offering to mediate in the pursuit of restoring peace to the region.
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Fidan is set to participate in a meeting of foreign ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Jeddah on Wednesday, where discussions on the situation in Gaza and broader regional peace efforts will take place.
