Fidan Proposes Comprehensive Regional Security Initiative: Palestinian State a Condition for Occupation's Inclusion

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan unveiled a new strategic vision aimed at establishing an expanded regional security system, including several central powers in the Middle East and South Asia. Fidan explained that this initiative seeks to reshape regional relations based on cooperation and respect for the national sovereignty of participating states.

Media sources confirmed that the Turkish vision is based on resolving the Palestinian issue as a mandatory and fundamental prerequisite for any future security arrangements in the region. The Turkish minister stated that lasting stability cannot be achieved without addressing the root causes of the conflict and ensuring legitimate Palestinian rights.

The proposed initiative, in its foundational phase, includes Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the Arab Gulf states. This step aims to create a regional bloc capable of confronting common security challenges and enhancing economic and political integration among its members.

Fidan clarified in press statements that the door would remain open for other parties to join this system in later stages, including Iran and Israel. However, the minister stressed that this accession is subject to strict conditions related to adherence to international resolutions and achieving a just peace.

Regarding the Israeli side, the Turkish Foreign Minister linked any role for Tel Aviv in this framework to the necessity of full recognition of an independent Palestinian state on the June 4, 1967 borders. He indicated that this transformation is the only one that can change the regional perception of Israel and integrate it into its surroundings.

Fidan described the project as a 'golden opportunity' for the region's countries to overcome chronic historical conflicts and build a system of collective stability. He affirmed that Middle Eastern countries now possess the capability and will to play an active role in protecting their national security away from traditional external interventions.

These statements come at a time when international pressure is increasing, especially from the US administration led by Donald Trump, to integrate Turkey into the 'Abraham Accords' path. However, the declared Turkish position insists that any commercial or political rapprochement must be preceded by a radical change in Israeli policy towards Palestinians.

The Turkish minister noted that economic relations between Ankara and Tel Aviv, which previously reached about $10 billion, would remain suspended until military aggression ceases. He demanded an end to the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip and the immediate securing of humanitarian aid and basic necessities for the population.

Fidan strongly criticized the current political doctrine in Israel, considering that it relies on creating enemies to justify its military expansion in the region. He pointed out that Israeli actions in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and Syria reflect a desire for hegemony rather than a search for true security.

On the international relations front, the minister provided an optimistic assessment of diplomatic efforts to contain tensions between the United States and Iran. He explained that the mediation led by Turkey in cooperation with Qatar has achieved tangible progress that could lead to an imminent agreement between the two parties.

Fidan believes that the success of the US-Iranian dialogue will positively reflect on all outstanding issues in the region, foremost among them the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. He affirmed that easing international polarization will contribute to accelerating the achievement of comprehensive political solutions to regional crises.

The minister also touched upon the economic challenges resulting from tensions in vital waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz, and their direct impact on energy markets. He warned that the continued absence of political solutions would lead to further disruptions in global oil prices and maritime security.

In the context of international preparations, Fidan indicated that Turkey is preparing to host the NATO summit next July. The summit is expected to witness in-depth discussions on the alliance's role in the Middle East, with anticipated participation from US President Donald Trump.

The Turkish minister concluded his remarks by emphasizing that Ankara will continue to act on all diplomatic tracks to ensure a ceasefire in the Palestinian territories. He stressed that building any successful security system first requires ending the suffering of the Palestinian people and enabling them to determine their own destiny.

Tel Aviv's recognition of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders represents the fundamental condition that could open the door for its participation in any future regional security system.