Hamas presence in Turkey escalates

In late July 2026, Hamas announced a strategic shift toward Turkey, reversing a previous drawdown. The organization held leadership meetings and internal elections in Istanbul, resulting in Khalil al‑Hayya being chosen as the head of its Political Bureau. Turkish authorities pointed to alleged Israeli intelligence monitoring Hamas operatives, while Israel urged Turkey to expel senior Hamas figures. The move also signaled a rift with Qatar, where earlier Hamas gatherings had taken place, and followed an Israeli airstrike on Hamas officials in Doha.

A few days later, Israel’s Minister of Diaspora Affairs, Amichai Chikli, publicly blamed Turkey for harboring Hamas leadership, citing a meeting between Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and al‑Hayya. Chikli described Turkey as a “command center” for Hamas planners targeting Europe. Turkey’s state news agency reported that Fidan congratulated al‑Hayya on his election and reaffirmed Ankara’s support for the Palestinian cause, while al‑Hayya briefed the minister on Gaza developments and affirmed Hamas’s commitment to cease‑fire negotiations and intra‑Palestinian reconciliation. The exchange highlighted rising diplomatic tension between Israel and Turkey over Hamas’s renewed foothold in Istanbul.