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Navigating Middle-Eastern Turmoil Amid Iran-Israel Tensions

August 14, 2024, 2:04 am

The assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, Chief of Hamas’s Politburo, in Tehran just hours after attending the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian, was a significant and dramatic event. Haniyeh, who had been a key figure in negotiations and talks since the 7th October attack on Israel, had emerged as a critical voice in promoting Hamas’s narratives. Based in Doha, Qatar, and frequently traveling between Egypt and Iran, Haniyeh was the face of Hamas, now positioning itself as the central force in the Palestinian resistance. His assassination has further destabilized the Middle East, pushing the region closer to a precarious situation that could lead to prolonged chaos. The killing of Haniyeh within Iran is likely to provoke a strong response from Tehran, which risks appearing weak in the eyes of its regional rival. The Iranian-backed ‘Axis of Resistance,’ a coalition of militias involved in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, is also urging Iran to respond militarily in a decisive manner. Hezbollah’s leader in Lebanon, Hassan Nasrallah, in his second speech in as many weeks, warned that the retaliation would be “strong and effective.” As Nasrallah spoke, Israeli combat jets conducted ‘sonic booms’ over Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, in a show of force. Meanwhile, Hamas has announced its new leader, Yahya Sinwar, a key planner of the 7 October attack and one of the most wanted figures in Gaza.

India’s geopolitical assessment of this situation is crucial, given its implications for regional stability and global security. In the midst of this escalating regional conflict, which the international community is striving to contain, India has adopted a stance of strategic ambiguity. So far, there have been no direct statements from New Delhi regarding the events surrounding Haniyeh’s assassination, even though Saudi Arabia has expressed support for Iranian sovereignty. This ambiguity likely reflects India’s reluctance to show sympathy for the elimination of a leader from a terrorist organization. Although India has not officially designated Hamas as a terrorist group, this cautious approach aligns with the current government’s firm stance against international terrorism, particularly at a time when global efforts to counter terrorism seem to be waning.

Historical Analysis
Historically, India has politically supported the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) since 1974. Following the 7th October attack, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi quickly condemned the terror act, consistent with India’s longstanding opposition to terrorism. However, Modi’s message on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) was mistakenly interpreted by some as a shift in India’s policy in the region. In reality, New Delhi continues to advocate for a two-state solution, maintains diplomatic relations with Palestine, hosts a Palestinian embassy, and officially recognized the Palestinian state in 1988. Geopolitically, much has shifted over the years, and so have India’s interests. Until 1992, India prioritized its relationships with Arab states and Iran, reflecting their regional interests. This changed with the establishment of the first Indian embassy in Tel Aviv. Israel had long pursued full diplomatic ties with India, positioning itself as a crucial ally, particularly against Pakistan.
This economic focus is evident in India’s involvement in new regional groupings like I2U2 and the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), which are key to India’s strategic objectives in the region. This perspective is not unique to New Delhi; the cautious stance taken by capitals such as Abu Dhabi and Riyadh underscores their own balancing acts. Their primary goals are to safeguard the substantial economic progress they continue to make, as seen in the global success of hubs like Dubai and the aspirations of Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Equally important is the need to maintain peace within their domestic populations, who show strong solidarity with the Palestinian cause. So far, these Arab states have managed to navigate both challenges with relative success. Iran also plays a crucial role in India’s security considerations. New Delhi views its relationship with Iran, at least theoretically, through the lens of a neighboring state, as Iran was until 1947. More concretely, Iran is pivotal in India’s strategic thinking for two key reasons: its connection to Central Asia, important for geoeconomic reasons, and its influence in Afghanistan, which has significant regional security implications, especially as Afghanistan remains at the top of the 2024 Global Terrorism Index.

India’s Domestic viewpoint
A key security concern for India regarding events in the Middle East is their potential domestic impact. The spillover from the Gaza conflict became evident when Khaled Mashal, the former chief of Hamas, addressed a pro-Palestine rally in Malappuram, Kerala, via video conference. Kerala, a state with a large population working in the Arab world, witnessed this event organized by the Solidarity Youth Movement. During the Islamic holy month of Muharram, various groups across the sectarian divide—both Shias and Sunnis—expressed solidarity with Palestinians, and in some cases, anti-Israel sentiments during their processions. In the sensitive region of Kashmir, Shia mourners were charged under Indian anti-terror laws for raising the Palestinian flag during a rally in Srinagar. Similarly, in 2020, the Shia community in the region held rallies to protest the assassination of Iranian military leader Qassem Soleimani, which has since become an intermittent source of unrest in parts of the troubled area. This issue is significant because it is not directly related to inter-state dynamics or cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, but rather to the sectarianism present within India’s Muslim community. Adding to the geopolitical complexities in the Middle East and domestic concerns, India’s neighborhood challenges have also intensified. With China and Pakistan as historically difficult neighbours, and ongoing crises in Myanmar and Bangladesh, alongside diplomatic challenges in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, New Delhi’s resources and attention are already heavily strained. Taking a definitive stance in the Middle East at this juncture would be an unnecessary complication that is best avoided.

Sharanpreet Kaur in an Assistant Professor of International Relations at School of Social Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar. She is an alumni of Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi

OIC Accuses Israel of Killing Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh

August 8, 2024, 2:55 pm

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has condemned the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran on July 31. In a statement from their extraordinary meeting in Jeddah, the OIC held Israel “fully responsible” for the attack, describing it as a “flagrant violation of international laws, the UN Charter, and a serious infringement on Iran’s sovereignty.”

The OIC called for immediate action from the UN Security Council to maintain international peace and security, citing the attack as a crime of aggression and a violation of Iran’s national security. They expressed deep concern over the ongoing Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank, demanding an end to what they describe as “Israeli aggression” and urging for protection and humanitarian aid for Palestinians.

The statement also criticized Israel’s “continued war crimes” and called for all states to avoid supporting or cooperating with Israel to prevent further violations of international law. The OIC emphasized the need to uphold the historical and legal status of the holy sites in Jerusalem and called for measures to end Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories.

Saudi Arabia’s deputy foreign minister, Waleed al-Khereiji, voiced his country’s rejection of any violations of state sovereignty. Gambia’s Foreign Minister, Mamadou Tangara, warned that the killing of Haniyeh and ongoing violence could lead to a wider regional conflict, emphasizing the need for a durable peace that addresses the root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Tensions in the region have risen following the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ announcement of Haniyeh’s death, which was confirmed by Iranian authorities. Israel has yet to comment on the incident, and Hamas has appointed Yahya Sinwar as Haniyeh’s successor.

Who Could Be The Next Leader Of Hamas? Top Contenders Revealed

August 3, 2024, 6:06 pm

Following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Hamas is poised to select a new political leader. This comes at a crucial time, nearly ten months into the Gaza war sparked by Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel.

Potential Candidates for Hamas’s Leadership

Khalil al-Hayya

Khalil al-Hayya, currently the deputy head of Hamas’s political bureau in Gaza, is a prominent figure associated with Yahya Sinwar, Hamas’s regional leader. Known for his advocacy of armed struggle, Hayya has faced significant personal loss due to Israeli military actions.

Musa Abu Marzuk

Musa Abu Marzuk, a senior member of Hamas’s political bureau, is recognized for his pragmatic approach, including support for a long-term ceasefire with Israel. Despite his past attempts to lead Hamas, Marzuk remains a key contender due to his negotiation skills and experience.

Khaled Meshaal

Khaled Meshaal, who previously led Hamas, has lived in exile since 1967. He survived an assassination attempt by Mossad in 1997 and has had a complex relationship with various Middle Eastern regimes. His extensive experience and leadership history make him a strong candidate.

Yahya Sinwar

Yahya Sinwar, elected to lead Hamas in Gaza in 2017, is known for his hardline stance and alleged involvement in the October 7 attack. With a long history of conflict and leadership within Hamas, Sinwar remains a central figure in the group’s future.

As Hamas considers its next leader, the choice will impact the group’s strategy and its approach to the ongoing conflict with Israel.

Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh Laid To Rest In Qatar Amid Rising Tensions

August 3, 2024, 4:42 pm

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, assassinated in Iran on Wednesday, was buried in Qatar following a Muslim funeral ceremony. The service took place at the Imam Muhammed bin Abdul Wahhab mosque in Doha, the largest mosque in the country. Haniyeh’s coffin, draped in the Palestinian flag, was then transported to a cemetery in Lusail, north of the capital.

The funeral was attended by several foreign dignitaries, including Turkey’s Vice-President Cevdet Yilmaz and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. High-profile figures from both Hamas and its Palestinian rival Fatah, along with members of the public, were present at the ceremony.

The assassination occurred during Haniyeh’s visit to Tehran, where Iran and its allies have blamed Israel, though Israel has not claimed responsibility. Following the killing, Turkey and Pakistan declared a day of mourning, and Hamas has called for widespread protests after Friday prayers.

A separate funeral ceremony was held in Tehran, led by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who vowed severe retaliation against Israel for the assassination.

Haniyeh, who had been based in Doha since 2019, played a significant role in negotiations for a potential ceasefire in Gaza. His burial marks a significant moment in a week of escalating Middle Eastern tensions, which also saw a deadly strike on the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, further straining regional relations.

How Killing Of Ismail Haniyeh Will Affects Gaza Peace Efforts?

August 1, 2024, 1:19 pm

The assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh on Wednesday has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict and may influence efforts for a ceasefire between Israel and Gaza, analysts told Al Jazeera.

Haniyeh was killed during an event marking the inauguration of Iran’s reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran. Hamas has accused Israel of the assassination, describing it as a “treacherous Zionist raid” on Haniyeh’s residence. Israel has yet to comment on the accusation. The attack follows a recent Israeli strike in Beirut that killed Fuad Shukr, a senior Hezbollah commander, and occurred shortly after an attack in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights that killed 12 Druze children, for which Israel blamed Hezbollah.

The deaths of Haniyeh and Shukr could lead Iran and Hezbollah to respond carefully to avoid escalating into a full-scale regional conflict. U.S. and European Union diplomats are reportedly working with regional counterparts to de-escalate the situation. The EU’s focus is on Iran, which has vowed “harsh revenge” for Haniyeh’s killing.

Despite the threats of retaliation, experts suggest Iran might avoid major escalation, similar to its response in April when it targeted Israel with missiles and drones after an Israeli attack on its consulate in Syria. This measured approach was intended to avoid broader conflict.

The assassination of Haniyeh, a key figure in the Gaza ceasefire negotiations, could either hinder or advance the peace process. Israel’s war on Gaza has caused significant casualties and displacement, leading to ongoing ceasefire talks. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political position and the complex dynamics of the conflict may affect the prospects for a deal. Some experts believe that Netanyahu might use the assassination as a political tool to support a ceasefire, portraying it as a victory that could facilitate negotiations.

On the other hand, Azmi Keshawi from the Crisis Group warns that Israel might face tougher negotiations if Haniyeh’s successor is a harder liner. With mounting pressure on the Israeli military and calls for a ceasefire from within Israel, the situation remains fluid.

The assassination of Haniyeh also restores some confidence in Israel’s security apparatus, which had been criticized for its handling of the October 7 Hamas-led attack. Analysts suggest that while Iran’s proxies may respond, a prolonged, low-intensity conflict is more likely than an all-out war.

U.S. support for Israel is seen as a key factor in the current tensions. Critics argue that unconditional backing has emboldened Israel and exacerbated the crisis, potentially derailing efforts for a ceasefire and escalating regional conflicts.

Assassination Of Hamas Leader In Tehran Exposes Iran’s Security Lapse

July 31, 2024, 11:00 pm

In a shocking security breach, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran, where he was an official guest at the inauguration of Iran’s new President Masoud Pezeshkian. This incident highlights a significant security lapse for Iran’s leadership.

Haniyeh was staying at a special residence for war veterans in north Tehran when an airborne projectile struck the facility at 2 am local time. According to reports by state-run media affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Supreme National Security Council, one of Haniyeh’s bodyguards was also killed in the attack.

The facility, under Iran’s security establishment, underscores the gravity of the security failure. Both Hamas and the IRGC have blamed Israel for Haniyeh’s assassination, although Israel has not claimed responsibility.

Israel has previously demonstrated its ability to infiltrate Iran and execute high-profile assassinations, such as the killing of top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh in 2020.

Haniyeh, based in Qatar and Turkey, led Hamas’s political bureau and became a prominent figure in diplomatic efforts since the conflict in Gaza began on October 7 last year. He participated in ceasefire talks brokered by Arab states and the West.

Hours before his death, Haniyeh attended the swearing-in ceremony for President Pezeshkian, which was also attended by Union minister Nitin Gadkari. The assassination follows the killing of top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, further complicating the ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel.

Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, a key mediator, questioned the success of mediation efforts when one party assassinates the negotiator on the other side.

Former Palestinian minister Hanan Ashrawi stated that the killings of Shukr and Haniyeh are intended to inflame the region and sabotage any chances of a deal or de-escalation.

The armed wing of Hamas declared that Haniyeh’s assassination would escalate the conflict. Iran announced three days of national mourning, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei promising vengeance for the attack on Iranian soil.

“The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime martyred our beloved guest inside our house and made us mournful, but it paved the way for a harsh punishment to be imposed on it,” Khamenei stated.

The responses from Iran and Hamas to Haniyeh’s assassination will be critical in determining the region’s future stability. While Iran may avoid actions leading to an all-out war, it has the capacity to retaliate against Israel, as evidenced by the missile and drone attacks in April in response to an Israeli air strike on IRGC commanders in Syria.

Qatar Condemns Killing of Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh

July 31, 2024, 7:22 pm

Qatar has strongly condemned the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, the chief of Hamas’ Political Bureau, who was fatally attacked in Tehran, Iran’s capital. Qatar stressed that this act and the reckless targeting of civilians could plunge the region into chaos and undermine the prospects for peace.

Haniyeh was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Iran’s president when the attack occurred. The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced the killing as a “heinous crime” and a breach of international and humanitarian law.

In an official statement, the Ministry said, “The State of Qatar strongly condemns the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, Head of the Political Bureau of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), in Tehran. This is a heinous crime, a dangerous escalation, and a flagrant violation of international and humanitarian law.”

The statement also emphasized that such acts of violence and the reckless targeting of civilians threaten regional stability and peace efforts. The Ministry reiterated Qatar’s firm stance against violence, terrorism, and criminal acts, including political assassinations, regardless of the motives or reasons. It expressed condolences to Haniyeh’s family, his companion, and the State of Palestine and its people.

Other nations have also condemned the killing. Pakistan issued a statement expressing condolences to Haniyeh’s family and the people of Palestine, emphasizing its stance against terrorism in all forms, including extrajudicial and extraterritorial killings.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned the assassination, describing it as a “heinous attack” and offering condolences to the Palestinian people. It criticized the Israeli government for allegedly lacking a commitment to peace and claimed that the attack aimed to escalate conflict in Gaza to a regional level. Turkey reaffirmed its support for the Palestinian people’s “just cause.”

Ismail Haniyeh: World Leaders React To Killing Of Hamas Leader

July 31, 2024, 6:32 pm

The assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has sparked widespread international condemnation, with reactions from several countries and prominent figures highlighting the incident’s significant impact on regional stability.

Haniyeh was killed in an attack on Wednesday, with both Hamas and Iran’s Revolutionary Guards confirming the death. The assassination has drawn severe criticism from various nations, each viewing it as a dangerous escalation that could exacerbate tensions in the Middle East.

Reactions to Haniyeh’s Assassination:

Abdul Salam Haniyeh, the leader’s son, described his father’s death as a form of martyrdom and vowed that the assassination would not weaken the resistance. He emphasized his father’s commitment to Palestinian unity and resilience.
Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani stated that Haniyeh’s death would reinforce the alliance between Tehran, Palestine, and the resistance forces.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry condemned the killing as a “heinous crime” and a serious breach of international and humanitarian laws. They warned that such acts could push the region further into chaos and jeopardize peace efforts.
Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov condemned the assassination as an “absolutely unacceptable political murder” that would likely escalate tensions.
Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, head of Yemen’s Houthi Supreme Revolutionary Committee, labeled the assassination a “heinous terrorist crime” and a violation of legal and moral principles.
Sami Abu Zuhri, a senior Hamas official, called the killing a grave escalation aimed at undermining Hamas and the Palestinian cause. He asserted that the group would continue its resistance despite the loss.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry condemned the attack, expressing condolences to the Palestinian people and accusing the Israeli government of furthering conflict rather than peace. They warned that without international intervention, the situation could escalate regionally.
Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry also denounced the violence and called for global condemnation of such acts. They emphasized the need for de-escalation and constructive dialogue.
Areepent Uttarasin, a veteran Thai politician and former Gaza hostage negotiator, warned that the assassination could make negotiations and de-escalation efforts more challenging, leading to further violence.

The widespread condemnation underscores the assassination’s potential to destabilize the region and hinder ongoing peace efforts, highlighting the complex and volatile nature of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh Killed in Airstrike in Iran, 24 Hours After Sharing Stage with Nitin Gadkari

July 31, 2024, 4:56 pm

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in a predawn airstrike in Tehran on Wednesday, less than 24 hours after sharing the stage with Union minister Nitin Gadkari and other international leaders at the inauguration of Iran’s reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian.

The inauguration ceremony on Tuesday was attended by senior officials from various countries, including Armenia, Tajikistan, Egypt, Sudan, Iraq, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Cuba, and Brazil. European Union envoy Enrique Mora was also present.

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Attended the swearing-in ceremony of Iran's President, H.E. Masoud Pezeshkian, in Tehran today. Heartfelt congratulations to H.E. @drpezeshkian on behalf of Hon'ble PM Shri @narendramodi Ji, the Indian Government and people of India.

We look forward to… pic.twitter.com/1oqnTE8aer

— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) July 30, 2024

Regional Iran-backed allies such as Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Islamic Jihad Ziyad al-Nakhalah, Lebanon’s Hezbollah deputy secretary general Naim Qassem, and Yemen’s Huthi rebels spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam were also in attendance.

Iran’s supreme leader has vowed revenge against Israel for the assassination of Haniyeh, which risks escalating the ongoing conflict. Israel, which had previously pledged to target Hamas leaders following the group’s October 7 attack on southern Israel, has not commented on the airstrike.

The airstrike on Haniyeh followed an Israeli strike on a top Hezbollah commander in Beirut, Lebanon, earlier in the day.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari attended the inauguration ceremony, reflecting close ties between India and Iran. Gadkari conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s good wishes to President Pezeshkian and highlighted the ongoing cooperation between the two countries, including the development of Chabahar Port.

Who Was Ismail Haniyeh, The Hamas Leader Assassinated In Iran?

July 31, 2024, 12:25 pm

Ismail Haniyeh, the chairman of Hamas’s Political Bureau, was reportedly killed in a raid in Tehran, according to statements from both the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Hamas. Haniyeh, who had been living in exile in Qatar, was in Tehran for the inauguration of Iran’s new President, Masoud Pezeshkian, and was seen with Iranian leaders during his visit.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant referred to Hamas leadership as living on “borrowed time” following the October 7 attack by Hamas, and a poster in his Tel Aviv office featured Haniyeh’s image. The IRGC’s statement claimed that Haniyeh and his Iranian bodyguard were killed in a raid by Israel, referred to by the IRGC as the “Zionist entity.” Hamas also confirmed Haniyeh’s death, stating he was killed at his Tehran residence. The exact circumstances of the assassination are still unfolding.

Who Was Ismail Haniyeh?

Ismail Haniyeh was a prominent figure within Hamas, having been involved with the organization since the late 1980s and enduring multiple arrests by Israeli forces. After his release from an Israeli prison in 1992, he was exiled to southern Lebanon but soon returned to Gaza. His rise within Hamas continued as he became head of the office of the movement’s spiritual leader, Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, who was killed in an Israeli strike in 2004.

In 2006, Haniyeh led Hamas to an unexpected victory in the Palestinian parliamentary elections and was appointed ‘Prime Minister of the State of Palestine.’ However, this victory was not recognized by the international community, including Israel and Fatah, leading to internal tensions and President Mahmoud Abbas’s dissolution of Haniyeh’s government in 2007. Despite this, Haniyeh continued to govern from Gaza.

Haniyeh stepped down as Hamas leader in Gaza in 2017, transitioning to the role of chairman of Hamas’s Political Bureau. He relocated to Qatar, where he managed Hamas’s political activities until his death.

The assassination of such a key figure in Tehran, immediately following the inauguration of Iran’s new President, presents a significant embarrassment for the Islamic Republic. Israel has yet to confirm or deny involvement in the assassination, a common practice for the country in such sensitive situations. Meanwhile, Iran is investigating the incident.

Hamas Promises Response To Assassination Of Ismail Haniyeh

July 31, 2024, 11:46 am

A senior Hamas official declared on Wednesday that the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, the chief of the Palestinian movement, “will not go unanswered.” Musa Abu Marzuk, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, condemned the assassination as a “cowardly act” and vowed retaliation in his statement.

Hamas announced that Ismail Haniyeh, the group’s chief, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran, Iran. The IRGC statement detailed that Haniyeh’s residence was targeted in the early hours. The attack also resulted in the death of one of his bodyguards. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the incident in a statement, offering condolences to the Palestinian and Islamic nations, as well as the Resistance Front and Iran.

Turkish President Erdogan to meet Hamas Chief in Istanbul

April 20, 2024, 6:03 pm

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is scheduled to meet militant organisation Hamas’ political bureau head Ismail Haniyeh on Saturday to have talks in Istanbul regarding the ongoing Gaza war, state broadcaster TRT reported.

Additional details regarding the content of the discussions between the two individuals were not immediately available.

Haniyeh met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Qatar on Wednesday to discuss a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, according to the state news agency Anadolu.

Erdogan publicly endorses Hamas. During his address to the Knesset earlier this week, Netanyahu compared Hamas to Turkish independence fighters fighting Western armies in Anatolia in the 1920s.

During the same address, the Turkish leader criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for what he referred to as an ongoing “massacre” in Gaza. Israel has strongly refuted Erdogan’s remarks.

Despite the president’s verbal criticisms, Turkey has recently intensified its efforts to mediate in the Gaza conflict.

Efforts to negotiate, primarily facilitated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, have thus far been unsuccessful.

The war began on Oct 7, when Hamas and other terrorist groups launched an unprecedented invasion into southern Israel, killing over 1,200 people—the great majority of them were civilians—and kidnapping nearly 250 others, taking them into Gaza. Though more than thirty hostages have already been confirmed dead either killed on October 7 or from being held captive, Israel claims that over 130 captives are still in Gaza.

Israel’s response included extensive airstrikes and a ground offensive in Gaza, resulting in over 33,000 casualties in the strip. The significant civilian death toll and dire humanitarian conditions in the area have led to mounting international criticism of Israel, even from its close allies.