By: Rania Kisar

Global Input for Gaza 

1. Historic Diplomatic Alliance: Middle Eastern Ministers Unite for Peace in North America

For the first time, state officials from regions known for their contrasting and adversarial positions have come together, united in spearheading intense global diplomatic activities. The foreign affair ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey concluded their visit to North America this weekend. Originating from a summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League, these diplomatic efforts are aimed at halting the conflict and advocating for a UN-backed solution. The delegation stresses the need for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. 

2. Turkey’s Diplomatic Strides: From Gaza Tensions to Global Trade Talks.

Turkey’s strong stance against further Israeli operations in Palestinian territories was highlighted, with specific criticism directed at the U.S. for its isolated support of Israel, evidenced by its veto of a UN ceasefire resolution in Gaza.Concurrently, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan engaged in discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Their dialogue encompassed peace negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, signifying Turkey’s commitment to regional stability and normalization. In a separate development, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and Turkish Minister of Trade Omer Polat conversed over the phone, focusing on enhancing trade relations between the two countries, particularly in sectors like aviation, digital economy, and green technology. They planned to continue these discussions at the “Trade Winds” conference in Istanbul, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues related to Turkish exports and market access.

3. Istanbul’s Voice for Gaza: Protests and Forums Call for Global Justice.

Back in Istanbul, World Human Rights Day witnessed a large-scale protest against Israel’s military operations in Gaza. Organized by human rights groups, the demonstration condemned Israel for human rights violations and the destruction of Gaza’s infrastructure, urging a boycott of U.S. products due to its support of Israel. This sentiment was echoed at the TRT Channel Forum in Istanbul, which also emphasized the need for a more equitable international system, reform of the Security Council, and adherence to universal human values in global politics.

4. Erdogan’s Stance on Gaza: Challenging International Silence and Injustice. 

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan openly criticized the United Nations Security Council for its perceived bias towards Israel, particularly after the U.S. vetoed a Gaza ceasefire proposal. He accused the council of violating the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Gaza and labeled Israeli authorities as the “butchers of Gaza,” signaling his skepticism about the possibility of justice under the current international framework. Turkish First Lady Emine Erdoğan also spoke out, criticizing the global silence on Israeli threats to Gaza and questioning the credibility of universal human rights in this context.

5. Erdogan’s Gaza Critique Meets Challenge: Calls to Take in Gazan Refugees. 

Amid these developments, Israeli media speculated on the possibility of Turkey accepting Gaza refugees. This potential move is seen as aligning with President Erdoğan’s Sunni Islamic identity and his strategy to balance the growing Kurdish population in Turkey. Historically, Turkey has accepted Syrian refugees, and a similar approach towards Gazans could help maintain the country’s Sunni Muslim and Turkish cultural dominance.

6. Countering Iranian Threats: Mossad and Cyprus Thwart Planned Attacks. 

Lastly, the Israeli Mossad announced its collaboration with Cypriot authorities in preventing an Iran-orchestrated attack targeting Israelis and Jews in Turkish-controlled Cyprus. This development highlights growing concerns about Iran’s potential use of the region for terrorism and logistical activities, especially in the wake of the Gaza conflict.

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