In a post on the social network X, Duran responded to statements made by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz directed at President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ankara.

  The official described Katz’s claims as baseless and maintained that they reflect the political difficulties facing the Tel Aviv government ahead of elections scheduled for the end of this month.

  He added that, in his view, the accusations against Turkiye cannot conceal Israel’s actions in Gaza or its policies in the region, which Ankara considers aggressive.

  Furthermore, he questioned the threats attributed to Katz against figures involved in ceasefire and peace agreement negotiations, noting that they contradict international law and demonstrate a disregard for international public opinion.

  Under Erdogan’s leadership, Turkiye will continue to defend the rights of the Palestinian people and promote—according to Duran—justice and lasting peace.

  Meanwhile, the Palestinian movement Hamas denounced Katz’s threats to assassinate Khalil al-Hayya, the head of its political bureau, labeling them “organized state terrorism” and characterizing them as a sign of the Israeli government’s political crisis.

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