Turkish, US top diplomats hold talks on Syria and Gaza peace board

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a telephone conversation on Monday, covering critical regional issues including the situation in Syria and a proposed U.S. peace initiative for Gaza. The discussion underscores ongoing diplomatic coordination between Ankara and Washington on Middle Eastern conflicts.

Key Regional Issues on the Agenda

Diplomatic sources confirmed that the two top diplomats exchanged views on the latest developments in Syria, where Türkiye has significant security interests and maintains a military presence. The call also addressed the U.S.-proposed "Board of Peace" for Gaza, a plan aimed at overseeing the reconstruction and governance of the enclave following the recent conflict.

Context of the US Peace Initiative

The U.S. administration, under President Donald Trump, has invited several world leaders, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, to participate in the newly formed Board of Peace. The initiative seeks to implement a comprehensive plan for Gaza's future, though details and international acceptance remain under discussion. The call between Fidan and Rubio likely served as a preliminary consultation on Türkiye's potential role and its perspectives on the proposal.

Türkiye's Evolving Diplomatic Engagement

While no further specifics from the private discussion were released, the high-level contact highlights Türkiye's active and multifaceted diplomatic role. As a NATO ally with deep ties in the region, Türkiye's stance on both Syria and Gaza carries considerable weight. Such dialogues are essential for aligning strategies and addressing Ankara's priorities, particularly its concerns regarding Kurdish militia presence in northern Syria and its advocacy for the Palestinian cause.