Netanyahu: There Will Be No Turkish Forces in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated on Monday his rejection of the participation of Turkish forces in the proposed international force to be deployed in the Gaza Strip.

Speaking to senior reserve officers, Netanyahu stated unequivocally: "There will be no Turkish forces in the Gaza Strip."

Background: Turkey's Attempts and Israel's Stance

• Turkish Negotiations: Netanyahu's statement follows a report from the pro-government Turkish newspaper, Türkiye, which claimed negotiations for Turkish forces to join the anticipated international force were expected to be completed by the end of the week.

• Proposed Turkish Role: Quoting security sources, the newspaper reported that Turkey wants a role in Gaza similar to its previous role in Lebanon, with personnel capable of contributing to security efforts or acting as observer soldiers, and possibly sending troops to secure its own team.

• Multinational Force Scenario: The Turkish sources suggested forming a multinational force where security responsibilities would be entrusted to countries like Egypt, Pakistan, and Azerbaijan, while Turkey would send some high-level officers as observers.

• Israeli Skepticism: Israel views Ankara's role with suspicion, especially given the relationship between Turkey and the leadership of Hamas, and its efforts to modify the US position supporting Israel.

Official Israeli Position and Accusations Against Turkey

• Neutrality Requirement: Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar stressed that only countries considered "neutral" by Israel could participate in the international force (which is expected to mainly include troops from Arab and Islamic nations).

• Accusation of Hostility: Sa'ar stated that "Turkey, unfortunately, under the leadership of Erdoğan, has adopted a hostile approach toward Israel, which is not limited to statements but also includes diplomatic and economic steps against it."

Erdoğan's Stance on the Conflict

• Support for Hamas and Criticism of Israel: Earlier on Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said that Hamas "appears determined to respect the agreement," while Israel's record in this regard is very poor.

• Call for Reconstruction: Erdoğan called for more humanitarian aid for Gaza residents and for beginning reconstruction efforts, accusing the Israeli government of doing everything in its power to prevent this.