Turkish, Portuguese foreign ministers discuss continuing Mideast conflict

By Seda Sevencan

ISTANBUL (AA) – Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Monday had a phone call with his Portuguese counterpart Joao Gomes Cravinho, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues into its second week, according to Turkish diplomatic sources.

During the call, the two leaders discussed developments in Israel and Palestine, Israel's attacks on the Gaza Strip, and the humanitarian situation there, said the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on speaking with the media.

Gaza is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis, with no electricity, while water, food, fuel, and medical supplies are running out, as civilians flee to the south following Israel’s warning to evacuate northern areas.

The fighting began when Hamas on Oct. 7 initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack including a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel via land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence from Israeli settlers.

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

Since then the number of Palestinians killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza has risen to 2,750, including 750 children.

In Israel, 1,300 have been killed.