Newsletters
Türkiye's top diplomat announced Saturday that his country stands ready to assume guarantor responsibilities if a two-state solution is established between Israel and Palestine, marking a significant pledge as international efforts continue to solidify a fragile ceasefire in Gaza.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, speaking on a television program, said Türkiye has positioned itself as a mediator throughout efforts to end the Gaza conflict, leveraging decades of support for Palestinian causes and regional relationships.
"If an agreement acceptable to the Palestinians is reached, we are ready to do our part," Fidan said. "Should a two-state solution be realized, Türkiye is prepared to take on the responsibility of a de facto guarantor."
The statement comes as diplomatic efforts intensify following a ceasefire agreement signed Monday in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. U.S. President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi hosted more than 20 world leaders at the Red Sea resort, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who joined Trump, al-Sisi and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani in formally signing the document.
Türkiye has established an "early task force" to address logistical challenges during the ceasefire implementation, including coordination of hostage and body exchanges. Fidan said the group aims to maintain communication channels on the ground.
Three institutional mechanisms outlined in Trump's Gaza ceasefire plan — a task force, peace council and stabilization force — remain under discussion, though their specific mandates and composition have not been finalized, according to Fidan.
1 min read
Fidan acknowledged that placing "full trust" in Israel remains unrealistic, instead emphasizing the need for sustained international pressure to ensure compliance with any agreement. His remarks reflect longstanding tensions between Ankara and Jerusalem over the Palestinian question.
"If a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders is implemented, and Palestinians gain a sovereign and equal state, we are ready to act as a guarantor," Fidan said. "This is a major commitment, one not every state can undertake."
Türkiye's willingness to serve in such a capacity draws on its NATO membership and regional influence, though the minister did not specify what guarantor responsibilities would entail. The 1967 borders, established before the Six-Day War, have long been referenced in international discussions as the basis for a Palestinian state.
1 min read
