Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (Shutterstock)
The disagreement about Ankara’s role comes ahead of Trump’s expected announcement next month concerning which countries will comprise the Board of Peace and the International Stabilization Force as outlined in the 20-Point Plan.
By Vered Weiss, World Israel News
As the second phase of the Gaza cease-fire is imminent, Israel has requested from the Trump administration that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan not be included in the Board of Peace, established to govern Gaza.
Relations between Israel and Turkey have been tense, particularly since the war in Gaza began after Hamas invaded Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. Erdogan has welcomed Hamas leaders to his country and has engaged in harsh words against Israel, including criticizing the Jewish state of genocide.
Despite Turkish offers to join the international stabilization force in Gaza, Israel insisted that Turkish troops not take part.
The U.S., which considers Turkey an ally, has stressed that Ankara should have a role to play in the governance of postwar Gaza.
Before a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump told reporters, “I think it’s a good thing” (referring to the presence of Turkish troops in Gaza), adding, “Turkey has been great.” The president also said, “I know Erdogan very well, and, as you all know, he’s a good friend of mine. I believe him, and I respect him. So does Netanyahu.”
The premier didn’t comment on Trump’s statement, and Israeli officials are seeking to minimize Turkey’s role.
“In Israel, there is concern that Turkish involvement in humanitarian affairs and reconstruction efforts would give Ankara a significant foothold in controlling the Strip,” a source familiar with the talks told The Jerusalem Post.
The disagreement about Ankara’s role comes ahead of Trump’s expected announcement next month concerning which countries will comprise the Board of Peace and the International Stabilization Force as outlined in the 20-Point Plan the president unveiled last October.
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