Türkiye’s capital is preparing to host a crucial meeting of foreign ministers on Monday to strengthen the Gaza ceasefire and pave the way for long-term stability in the besieged Palestinian enclave, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced Friday.

Speaking at a press conference in Ankara, Fidan said the high-level gathering would include foreign ministers who had previously met with U.S. President Donald Trump in New York last September. The discussions, he explained, form part of ongoing diplomatic consultations to establish two specialized task forces — one to coordinate post-war recovery efforts and another to oversee the stabilization and protection of the ceasefire in Gaza.

Fidan noted that talks are now entering what he called the “second phase,” focusing on the creation of a stabilization force that would help safeguard the truce and reinforce security for the people of Gaza, who have endured immense suffering under months of relentless Israeli bombardment.

“Türkiye is working tirelessly with regional and international partners to ensure that the ceasefire holds and that humanitarian efforts in Gaza proceed without obstruction,” the minister said, emphasizing Ankara’s determination to play a central role in securing lasting peace based on justice and the protection of Palestinian rights.

Fidan also condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of “seeking pretexts to violate the ceasefire and resume the genocide in Gaza.” His remarks echoed mounting international concern that the occupation regime may attempt to reignite hostilities under various excuses, undermining the fragile calm achieved through immense diplomatic effort.

“The ceasefire must be fully respected,” Fidan stressed. “Only by holding Israel accountable and ensuring its adherence to the agreement can there be any hope for enduring peace and stability in our region.”

Türkiye has been at the forefront of international diplomatic initiatives aimed at halting Israeli aggression and alleviating the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. Turkish officials have repeatedly called for an end to the blockade, urgent reconstruction aid, and the establishment of a political framework that guarantees the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people.

Monday’s meeting in Ankara is expected to serve as a key step toward consolidating these efforts — transforming the ceasefire from a temporary pause into the foundation for a just and lasting peace in Gaza. (ILKHA)