Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan estimated that Israel could ultimately integrate a new regional security architecture in the Middle East, provided it recognizes a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders.
In an interview with the economic media Nikkei Asia, the head of Turkish diplomacy spoke of what he described as a “historic opportunity” to build a cooperation framework bringing together several regional powers, including Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the Gulf States. According to him, Iran could also join this system in the future if conditions are suitable.
Concerning Israel, Hakan Fidan affirmed that its integration depended on a settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. “If this problem is resolved, I believe that Israel’s security will also be largely supported by the countries in the region,†he said.
The Turkish minister also reaffirmed the conditions set by Ankara for complete normalization with Israel. According to him, the Jewish state must put an end to military operations against the Palestinians and allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. “If these conditions are met, we will be able to return to normal life without problems. We want to achieve a two-state solution,” he assured.
Furthermore, Hakan Fidan was optimistic about the discussions between the United States and Iran. Supported by Turkey, the mediation carried out in particular by Pakistan and Qatar could lead to an agreement. “Both parties want to achieve a positive outcome. An agreement has never been so close,” he said.
The head of Turkish diplomacy finally judged that a lasting detente between Washington and Tehran could accelerate discussions on a peace plan for Gaza and help stabilize the entire region.
