Erdogan and Merz Clash Over Gaza Conflict - Turkey's Role in Gaza Ceasefire Questioned After Israel Resumes Strikes
In the past two weeks, Turkey has been instrumental in pushing for the strict implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, working alongside the United States and other nations to maintain pressure on Israel while advocating for expanded humanitarian aid and reconstruction in Gaza. Turkey's significant diplomatic role in mediating the ceasefire has been acknowledged by both Turkish President Erdoğan and German Chancellor Merz. However, Turkey's exclusion from the international stabilization force in Gaza has raised questions about its future role in the region.
Turkey's strong ties with Hamas have been evident throughout the conflict, with Turkey playing a key role in brokering the recent truce. Despite the ceasefire, Israel has reportedly resumed strikes in Gaza, according to Erdoğan. This has led to a heated exchange between Erdoğan and Merz, with the two leaders disagreeing on the cause of the war and the responsibility of Israel and Hamas. Merz has aligned Germany firmly with Israel, stating that Germany will always stand by Israel's side. Meanwhile, Erdoğan has accused Israel of 'genocide' in Gaza during a press conference in Ankara.
Merz has urged Turkey to leverage its influence further to press Hamas to enter the second phase of the agreement. Germany has also urged Turkey to help disarm Hamas and support a governance structure in Gaza without Hamas, highlighting Turkey's potential future role in facilitating Hamas's disarmament and securing lasting peace in the region.
The ceasefire has since faltered, leaving uncertainty over the next steps in the peace process. Turkey's exclusion from the international stabilization force in Gaza has raised questions about its future role in the region. Despite this, both Erdoğan and Merz have acknowledged Turkey's contribution to the ceasefire process, with Erdoğan publicly thanking Turkey's diplomatic efforts and Merz urging Turkey to continue playing a significant role in the peace process.
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