Crisis talks in Istanbul: peace between Israel and Hamas in sight?

Crisis talks in Istanbul: peace between Israel and Hamas in sight?

On November 4, 2025, several Muslim states jointly called for compliance with the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This request was made at a meeting of foreign ministers in Istanbul, attended by, among others, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Qatar, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Jordan. Egypt was unable to attend the meeting due to other commitments. In this context, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized the need to take steps towards a two-state solution in order to achieve lasting peace in the region.

The two-state solution, which envisages the peaceful coexistence of Israel and a Palestinian state, has been discussed for decades. So far, however, no concrete progress has been made in implementing the peace plan presented by US President Donald Trump. In a second phase, this provides, among other things, for the disarmament of Hamas and its exclusion from political participation in the Gaza Strip. In addition, an international peacekeeping force is to be formed to stabilize the Gaza Strip. However, the deployment of this force would require a mandate from the UN Security Council.

Role of Türkiye and Hamas

Fidan also reported that Hamas is ready to transfer the administration of the Gaza Strip to a Palestinian committee. This information highlights the political dynamics and possibilities for future negotiations. Turkey has historically established itself as a key mediator in the region and is playing a crucial role in brokering the current ceasefire, which came into force on October 10.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, there are serious security concerns. Israel recently carried out an attack in southern Gaza, killing two people. The Israeli army justified this attack by claiming that the Palestinians posed a threat and had crossed a “yellow line.” These escalations cast a shadow over efforts to achieve lasting peace.

Historical context of peace efforts

The conflict between Israel and the Palestinians has a long and complex history, marked by various peace initiatives and diplomatic efforts as well as numerous setbacks. The handshake between Yitzhak Rabin and Yasser Arafat on September 13, 1993 is a symbolic date in the peace process in the Middle East. Since then, there have been various negotiations, including the roadmap for the two-state solution and initiatives to promote economic cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians.

However, the conflict remains unresolved and serious complications such as the political split in the Palestinian leadership and the increase in Israeli settlements in the West Bank are complicating peace efforts. Critics argue that the term “peace process” often remains just a political slogan without any substantial progress being made.