Palestinian President Abbas, Erdogan to meet in Ankara as Israeli attacks on Gaza intensify

Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas is meeting Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on Thursday, a visit seen as highly significant amid intensified Israeli attacks on Gaza.

Abbas was welcomed with an official ceremony at the Presidential Complex before holding one-on-one talks with Erdogan. Later in the evening, Erdogan is expected to host a special dinner in honor of the Palestinian leader.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas makes a speech as he attends the Extraordinary Meeting on Palestine at the Grand National Assembly of Turkiye in Ankara, Türkiye, August 15, 2024. (AA Photo)

Last visit to Türkiye

Abbas last visited Türkiye on Aug. 14–15, 2024. During that trip, he held talks with Erdogan and also addressed the Turkish Parliament.

The latest Ankara meeting comes just days ahead of the United Nations General Assembly and is taking place against the backdrop of escalating violence in Gaza. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening Türkiye-Palestine relations and exploring new diplomatic initiatives.

September 18, 2025 11:29 AM GMT+03:00