Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held critical talks with a Hamas delegation this week to advance the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, as regional stakeholders intensify efforts to stabilize the conflict-ridden territory. The discussions, confirmed by state-run TRT on January 27, 2026, focused on accelerating humanitarian aid delivery and addressing governance challenges under the U.S.-backed peace plan.
Fidan reiterated Ankara’s commitment to ensuring sustained aid flows to Gaza, where over 1.8 million residents remain dependent on international assistance. The meeting coincides with heightened diplomatic activity surrounding the Trump administration’s three-phase peace initiative, which entered its second stage earlier this month. This phase prioritizes demilitarization and technocratic governance structures while laying groundwork for reconstruction.
The first phase, implemented last September following the 2023 conflict outbreak, faced repeated accusations of violations from both Israel and Hamas. Current negotiations aim to prevent similar setbacks as attention shifts to long-term stability measures.
Analysts note Turkey’s growing role as a regional mediator, particularly given its historical ties with Palestinian factions. However, challenges persist in reconciling security concerns with humanitarian needs, especially regarding cross-border aid coordination through Egypt and Israel.
