Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has praised Hamas for its cooperation with a Gaza peace plan, saying the group is meeting its obligations while Israel continues attacks in Gaza and Lebanon. In an interview with Al Jazeera published Sunday, Erdogan said U.S. President Donald Trump is concerned about Israeli actions.
The proposed framework, put forward by a "Peace Council," calls for a ceasefire, Hamas disarmament, and a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the plan, while senior Hamas official Basem Naim said the movement remains committed to it. Trump envoy Jared Kushner is in the region for talks, with a meeting with Netanyahu scheduled Monday.
Erdogan also indicated the Mecca defense pact signed Aug. 7 by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan may expand, with Egypt a possible future member. He added that Turkey has received a promise from Trump on F-35 fighter jets and is awaiting delivery.