Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan cautioned against Israel’s alleged plans to push Palestinian Authority Arabs into neighboring countries, warning that such actions could destabilize the region. He expressed discontent with Netanyahu’s negotiation tactics and discussed the necessity for Syrian political reconciliation.
In an interview with Hurriyet, a prominent Turkish newspaper, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed serious concerns regarding Israel’s intentions towards Palestinian Authority Arabs. He articulated that, “Israel’s main goal is to force the Palestinian people from Gaza into Egypt and from the West Bank into Jordan.” Fidan emphasized that such a development would exacerbate the instability in the region. Fidan elaborated that Israel may not restrict its actions to military responses after the upcoming United States elections, suggesting that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may take drastic measures against Iran’s nuclear capabilities. He warned that the ramifications of such actions could potentially extend the conflict beyond current borders. The Foreign Minister conveyed disapproval of Netanyahu’s tactics during the ceasefire negotiations, stating, “Netanyahu employs the negotiation process as a tactic to postpone while advancing military objectives.” Despite some advancement in the ceasefire discussions with Hamas, Fidan indicated that the group regards achieving a ceasefire as a means to ensure significant changes in Israel’s approach. During their last discussion, Fidan reported that Turkey addressed several critical issues, including the need for humanitarian aid and the importance of Palestinian reconciliation. Additionally, he assessed relations concerning Turkey’s neighbor, Syria, remarking that President Bashar Assad remains dismissive of establishing normalized relations with opposing factions, thereby heightening regional instability. Fidan stressed the necessity for a dialogue between the Assad regime and opposition groups to forge a political consensus. He acknowledged recent comments from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who signaled Russia’s willingness to renew mediation efforts between Turkey and Syria. However, he asserted that Assad and his allies currently appear uncommitted to engaging with the opposition, which impairs prospects for normalization.
The context of this discussion is rooted in the ongoing tensions between Israel and the Palestinian territories, particularly following significant military operations in Gaza and ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Turkey has positioned itself as a mediator and observer in these affairs, often voicing its opinions on the geopolitical dynamics in the region, particularly as they relate to the Palestinian people and the Syrian conflict. The evolving situation post-U.S. elections also plays a crucial role in shaping future actions by both Israel and regional powers like Turkey and Russia.
The remarks by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan highlight the complex interplay of regional politics and the challenges facing both the Palestinian territories and Turkey’s diplomatic relations with Syria. The potential for increased instability in the region, should Israel proceed with its reported plans to displace Palestinian Arabs, is a central theme of concern. Additionally, the need for productive dialogue between the Syrian regime and opposition is emphasized as crucial for long-term stability in the region.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
