Ankara, Nov 10: Turkey is mediating efforts to ensure the safe evacuation of around 200 civilians trapped in tunnels beneath the Gaza Strip, a senior Turkish official confirmed on Monday.
“We are working to ensure the safe passage of some 200 Gazan civilians currently trapped in the tunnels,” the official said, adding that Ankara remains committed to supporting humanitarian efforts under the ongoing Israel-Hamas ceasefire.
Earlier reports suggested that the United States is pressuring Israel to allow around 150 Hamas militants to exit tunnels in southern Gaza in exchange for their disarmament. These militants are believed to be located underground within the “yellow line,” an area currently controlled by the Israeli army under the ceasefire terms.
The Israel-Hamas ceasefire, which took effect on October 10, led to the release of 20 Israeli hostages captured during the October 7, 2023, attacks and the freedom of about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including those serving life terms.
As part of ongoing humanitarian measures, Hamas has been returning the remains of hostages who died in captivity. So far, 22 bodies have been returned and identified, while six more remain in Gaza. Turkey recently played a key role in facilitating the handover of Israeli officer Hadar Goldin’s remains, who was killed during the 2014 Gaza conflict.
According to the Turkish official, the successful transfer of Goldin’s remains “reflects Hamas’ clear commitment to the ceasefire” and signals potential for further coordinated humanitarian efforts.
Meanwhile, Hamas fighters in the Israeli-controlled Rafah area have vowed not to surrender, urging mediators to find a peaceful resolution to prevent further escalation and protect the month-old truce.
Turkey, a signatory to the US-backed ceasefire deal, maintains close diplomatic channels with Hamas and has repeatedly criticised Israel’s military actions in Gaza, calling for restraint and prioritisation of civilian safety amid the ongoing crisis.