Erdogan’s strategy to legitimize Hamas through law and global advocacy

A new report by the Jerusalem Center for Applied Policy (JCAP) warns that a book published by the Turkish presidency, titled Our Palestinian Issue, is part of a broader strategy by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s government to establish long-term Turkish influence in Gaza, Jerusalem, and a future Palestinian security system. The 769-page publication, available on the Turkish presidency’s website, portrays Israel as committing “genocide” and “war crimes” and gives extensive space to Hamas leaders. According to JCAP, the book outlines an international strategy based on diplomacy, international law, public opinion, and advocacy, rather than military action. Key elements include mobilizing world leaders for a ceasefire, expanding humanitarian aid to Gaza, promoting legal proceedings against Israel, and a global public diplomacy campaign. A central finding is Erdogan’s proposed “guarantor mechanism,” where Turkey and other countries would guarantee a future Israeli-Palestinian agreement, potentially giving Turkey deep involvement in Gaza’s future. Ran Yishai, head of JCAP’s research division, called on Israel to respond by shutting down the Turkish Consulate in Jerusalem, stating, “The consulate is the locomotive driving hostile Turkish policy against Israel in the region.”