In a significant diplomatic move, Israel permitted the departure of at least 66 Palestinians and Turkish citizens from the Gaza Strip earlier this month, following a formal request from Turkey. Among the group were 16 members of the family of the late Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated by Israel in July 2024. The arrangement, facilitated through bilateral negotiations, included 14 Turkish citizens and 40 close relatives of Turkish nationals, such as spouses, children, and parents. This decision aligns with the Gaza ceasefire agreement brokered in early October, where Turkey played a pivotal mediating role by engaging Hamas in negotiations. Notably, five of the Haniyeh family members were related to Turkish citizens, underscoring Turkey’s longstanding ties with Hamas leadership. Despite not hosting an official Hamas office, Turkey has been a frequent destination for the group’s leaders, who often travel between Qatar, Egypt, Lebanon, and Turkey. Israel’s decision to allow Haniyeh’s family to leave is particularly striking, given its military’s April 2024 airstrike that killed three of his sons and four grandchildren in Gaza. Analysts suggest this move reflects Israel’s broader strategy to ease tensions with Turkey, responding positively to Ankara’s diplomatic overtures. Since the ceasefire, Israeli media has adopted a more conciliatory tone toward Turkey, with prominent figures like Turkish intelligence chief İbrahim Kalin being praised for his empathy and efforts to rebuild ties. Israeli journalist Ben Caspit highlighted Israel’s forward-looking approach, while Uriel Lynn, president of the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce, emphasized the importance of restoring relations with Turkey for regional stability and economic growth. Lynn noted the historical strength of trade, economic, and tourism ties between the two nations, advocating for a pragmatic foreign policy guided by prudence rather than political posturing.
Exclusive: Israel allows Haniyeh family members to leave Gaza after Turkish request
