OPINION:
The deployment of Turkish soldiers to the Gaza Strip as part of a future “International Stabilization Force” should be a nonstarter for U.S. diplomats and mediators. The American government must realize that nations with a documented history of providing Hamas with a haven, political support, financial aid and/or material assistance cannot be granted any role in rebuilding Gaza.
Perversely, Turkey has long viewed Hamas as a “liberation movement” and doesn’t designate it as a terrorist organization. These facts alone should rule out Turkey from having any role in Gaza.
But there’s more. Much more.
Hamas has used Turkey as a hub to coordinate terrorist activities, recruit terrorists and manage extensive financial networks involving real estate and other businesses. U.S. and Israeli security services have uncovered numerous plots and financial operations tied to Hamas activities on Turkish soil.
Since 2011, Turkey has hosted senior Hamas leaders after the Gilad Shalit hostage-for-prisoner swap with Israel. High-ranking Hamas officials have frequently met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Turkish intelligence. Some senior Hamas terrorist leaders, including former leader Ismail Haniyeh (prior to his July 2024 killing), have even been granted Turkish citizenship.
The AKP, Turkey’s ruling party, and Hamas share ideological roots in the Muslim Brotherhood. Mr. Erdogan is a vocal critic of Israel’s response to the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led terrorist invasion of Israel, and he has used his platform to offer political support to Hamas in the international arena.
Peacekeepers must be trusted by all sides if they are to function effectively. Given Turkey’s history, Israel cannot reasonably be expected to view its soldiers as neutral actors. Nor should the United States do so.
MOSHE PHILLIPS
National chairman, Americans For A Safe Israel
New York, New York
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