Turkey says Muslim countries must be united against Israel's Gaza takeover plan

 

Turkey has called for full unity among Muslim nations to resist Israel’s reported plan to seize control of Gaza City. Speaking on Saturday after talks in Egypt, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stressed the need for collective action, saying Muslim countries must coordinate efforts and mobilise the wider international community to stop the move. Fidan’s remarks came during a joint press conference in El Alamein with his Egyptian counterpart, following a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

The Turkish minister emphasised that the Gaza issue is not only a regional concern but also a matter that demands urgent global attention. He argued that a coordinated Muslim response would be more effective in countering what Ankara views as an illegal and destabilising plan by Israel. In his statement, Fidan confirmed that Turkey had already called for an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to address the situation and consider collective measures. The call for unity comes at a time of heightened tensions and humanitarian concerns in Gaza, with fears that further escalation could worsen conditions for civilians and deepen instability in the region.

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The joint appearance by the Turkish and Egyptian foreign ministers signalled a rare moment of visible diplomatic alignment between the two nations, which have experienced strained relations in recent years. Both officials voiced concern over the implications of Israel taking direct control of Gaza City, warning that such a step could undermine prospects for peace and further inflame regional tensions.

Fidan’s statement placed heavy emphasis on the role of Muslim solidarity, suggesting that political divisions within the Islamic world have previously weakened its ability to respond effectively to crises affecting Palestinians. By urging a unified front, Turkey appears determined to rally both regional powers and global institutions in challenging Israel’s intentions.

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The planned Organisation of Islamic Cooperation emergency session, proposed by Turkey, would bring together 57 member states to discuss strategies, ranging from diplomatic protests to coordinated lobbying in international forums such as the United Nations. Egypt’s involvement is considered significant, given its role as a mediator in previous Israel-Gaza conflicts. The announcement in El Alamein highlighted Ankara’s growing efforts to place itself at the centre of Middle East diplomacy. Analysts believe the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Muslim nations can present a united stance on Gaza.