Türkiye's MIT chief meets Hamas leader to discuss Gaza peace plan

Ibrahim Kalin, head of the Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT), held discussions with Hamas Political Bureau Chairman Khalil al-Hayya and an accompanying delegation in Istanbul on Monday, focusing on efforts to advance the second phase of the Gaza peace plan. The meeting addressed a roadmap prepared for the transition to the next stage of negotiations, with participants underscoring the Palestinian group's constructive stance toward the proposal, according to sources familiar with the talks.

Both sides expressed concern that Israeli authorities had intensified military operations in the enclave rather than engaging with the diplomatic framework presented. They stressed the need for the international community to take immediate action to halt Israeli aggression in Gaza, sources told Anadolu.

West Bank tensions and settlement activity

The participants also examined ongoing violations of Palestinian rights in the West Bank and East Jerusalem as Israel's military campaign continues across the occupied territories. The discussions highlighted illegal settlement activities and a marked increase in violence by Israeli forces against Palestinian civilians, the sources added.

Humanitarian support and trilateral cooperation

The humanitarian situation in Gaza featured prominently during the talks, with Türkiye reaffirming its commitment to supporting the enclave through political advocacy and initiatives aimed at improving aid delivery. The meeting underscored Ankara's efforts to mobilize international opinion against Israel's actions in Gaza and to increase humanitarian assistance to the besieged territory.

Participants reaffirmed the ongoing joint efforts of Türkiye, Qatar and Egypt to help secure a lasting peace in Gaza. The Hamas delegation thanked Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for Ankara's diplomatic initiatives toward achieving stability in the region.