Diverging reports have emerged regarding Hamas's presence in Turkey. On one side, Israeli media claim that several senior Hamas officials, who had been based in Doha since 2012, have left Qatar to settle in Turkey, citing U.S. pressure to expel the group’s leaders.
This relocation reportedly coincided with Qatar's suspension of mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas.
However, a Turkish diplomatic source disputes these claims, stating that Hamas leaders have not established a permanent base in Turkey. According to the source, these officials make periodic visits to the country, a common practice, without any intention of permanently relocating their operations.
This controversy arises within a complex strategic context, as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's open support for Hamas could provoke tensions, particularly with the incoming Trump administration.
As a NATO member, Turkey will need to tread carefully in navigating these delicate international relations.
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