Turkish defense chief, top Iranian general talk developments in region

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ISTANBUL (AA) - Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler on Thursday had a phone conversation with Iranian Chief of General Staff Mohammad Bagheri to discuss recent regional developments.

"During the phone call, they discussed recent developments in the region, as well as bilateral and regional defense and security issues," the Turkish National Defense Ministry said on X.

The phone call came nearly two weeks into the conflict between Israel and Palestine, which started on Oct. 7, when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood – a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air.

Hamas said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians.

Iran has been accused of aiding in the Oct. 7 attack, but Iranian officials have denied it.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

Gaza is currently experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis with no electricity, while water, food, fuel and medical supplies are running out.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire to ease the “epic human suffering.”

At least 3,478 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while more than 1,400 Israelis have been killed since the start of the operation.

Various international actors, including the U.S., have said they would rather Iran not enter the conflict.