(MENAFN) Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called for unwavering compliance with the recently brokered ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, cautioning that any aggressive action by Israel could trigger renewed conflict and intensify civilian distress. Speaking at a press conference in Ankara alongside Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Fidan stated, “It is vital that the agreed upon deal proceeds without disruption.”

He emphasized that provocations must be avoided to prevent a resurgence of violence, displacement, and what he described as genocidal actions. “There must be no provocations from Israel that could restart the war, continue the genocide, or further the displacement of civilians,” he added.

The ceasefire, reached earlier this week in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, follows a 20-point proposal initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump. The plan’s initial stage includes a cessation of hostilities, the exchange of hostages and detainees, Israel’s withdrawal to a designated line within Gaza, and the flow of humanitarian aid into the region.

The agreement’s next phase outlines a new administrative structure in Gaza that excludes Hamas. It envisions a security force composed of Palestinian and regional troops, disarmament of Hamas, and funding from Arab and Islamic nations to rebuild Gaza. The Palestinian Authority is to have only a limited role in the proposed setup.

Fidan highlighted that the agreement was the outcome of extensive negotiations, addressing critical elements such as aid delivery, the return of displaced individuals, and the retreat of Israeli forces. He stressed that Türkiye is contributing technical support on the ground and engaging in diplomatic efforts internationally to maintain the ceasefire.

According to Fidan, implementing the initial terms is essential for moving forward with long-term goals like establishing sustainable peace and a two-state resolution. He warned, “If the process stalls, it could mean a return to massacres.” He also reiterated Türkiye’s ongoing engagement with global and regional partners to ensure smooth execution of the plan’s next phases.

For now, the top priorities remain enforcing the ceasefire, ensuring hostage releases, and facilitating urgent humanitarian assistance. Discussions on Gaza’s future governance and internal stability are set to follow. “This process demands continuous attention and diligence,” Fidan said. “We will continue to manage it with care and determination, as we have done so far.”

Fidan also addressed Türkiye’s bilateral relations with Iraq, particularly concerning water management. He acknowledged the severe water shortages impacting areas like Baghdad, Mosul, and Basra. “We fully understand your hardships. We are brothers in this region — the waters of the Euphrates and Tigris belong to all of us,” he stated.

Despite Türkiye facing its own water-related challenges, such as drought and low reservoir levels, it has continued to support Iraq in addressing water distribution issues. A bilateral agreement signed two years ago led to the formation of a joint committee aimed at overhauling Iraq’s water infrastructure and distribution systems.

Turning to energy cooperation, Fidan said both countries are eager to expand trade in oil, natural gas, and electricity. He pointed to the restart of oil flows through the Iraq–Türkiye pipeline on September 27 as a significant step, expressing hope that reaching full capacity would strengthen economic ties.

Efforts to increase electricity trade and infrastructure collaboration are also underway. Türkiye has encouraged its companies to participate in energy projects in Iraq, offering expertise and investment. Fidan also welcomed improved diplomatic engagement between Iraq and Syria, stating that Türkiye is ready to assist in enhancing cooperation between the two neighbors.

Fidan underscored the importance of strong Iraq–Syria relations for wider regional peace. He commended Iraq for its efforts to uphold Syria’s territorial integrity and praised its actions to combat extremist threats like ISIS/Daesh. He also acknowledged Iraq’s work in repatriating its citizens from detention camps in northeastern Syria, viewing it as a key contribution to regional security.

Reiterating Türkiye’s position, Fidan said all nations should take responsibility for their citizens currently held in such camps. Türkiye continues to advocate for the evacuation of these facilities as part of its broader counterterrorism strategy.

In addition, Fidan confirmed that Türkiye had successfully secured the release of its citizens and several activists, including parliamentarians, who were detained aboard vessels intercepted by Israel. These ships were part of international flotillas aiming to deliver aid to Gaza. He noted that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan personally ensured that not only Turkish nationals but also foreign activists were safely evacuated.

Speaking earlier at a university event, Fidan touched on Syria’s potential for a stable future, reiterating that Türkiye remains committed to protecting Syrian sovereignty and deterring any attempts by external forces or terrorist groups to derail peace efforts. He also addressed the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, affirming Türkiye’s continued support for diplomatic dialogue and humanitarian initiatives.

Fidan concluded by emphasizing that Türkiye’s diplomatic capacity remains strong enough to confront both regional tensions and global uncertainties.

MENAFN11102025000045017640ID1110181383