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The Turkish Foreign Ministry condemned Israeli air and artillery strikes in Gaza on Tuesday, which killed 18 Palestinians, describing them as a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement reached earlier in October.
The ministry expressed Türkiye’s deep concern over civilian casualties resulting from these attacks, reiterating its call for all parties involved to fully adhere to the truce in order to preserve hopes for lasting peace and regional security.
Ankara also urged Israel to comply with the ceasefire and refrain from actions that could undermine peace efforts in the region.
The statement further reaffirmed Türkiye's solidarity with the Palestinian people, emphasizing its commitment to continue supporting efforts for a just and lasting peace.
Israeli forces launched a series of air and artillery strikes across Gaza, following an order from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to carry out "forceful" strikes in retaliation for alleged ceasefire violations by Hamas. Netanyahu’s office has not commented on reports that the prime minister coordinated the escalation with senior U.S. officials.
This military action came after reports of Israeli forces being targeted by sniper fire and anti-tank missiles in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. While Israeli media reported the escalation was triggered by these attacks, Hamas denied any involvement, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement.
Hamas further warned that any Israeli escalation would hinder the search and excavation operations, as well as delay the return of Israeli captives. The group's armed wing, the Qassam Brigades, emphasized the negative impact on the ongoing recovery efforts for bodies held in Gaza.
The United Nations also expressed deep concern over the situation, with spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stressing the importance of all parties adhering to the ceasefire. Dujarric noted that any further escalation could worsen the humanitarian crisis in the region, particularly affecting civilians and disrupting ongoing UN operations.
Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance commented that despite the airstrikes, the ceasefire remains largely intact. Vance also stated that any skirmishes that may occur are not expected to derail the peace process initiated by President Donald Trump’s administration, which has led to a significant reduction in violence.
The ceasefire agreement has been in place since October 10, under a 20-point plan led by U.S. President Donald Trump. The agreement includes provisions for the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, as well as plans for rebuilding Gaza and establishing a new governing mechanism without Hamas.
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