Turkiye is working with the United States and Arab mediators to secure safe passage for about 200 Hamas fighters trapped in tunnels in the Israeli controlled area of Gaza. The issue has complicated efforts to move ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas toward a permanent end to the two year war.

Palestinian, Turkish and Hamas sources said Turkiye is coordinating with Egypt, Qatar and the United States to resolve the standoff. Turkish officials confirmed their involvement but did not provide details, describing the matter as sensitive.

The fighters are reportedly located in the Rafah area and have indicated a willingness to surrender their weapons in exchange for safe passage to Hamas controlled parts of Gaza. Israel has so far resisted this demand. United States envoy Steve Witkoff described resolving the issue as a key test for advancing the broader ceasefire plan.

Turkiye, which has close ties to Hamas and has criticized Israel’s military campaign, was also a signatory to the United States backed ceasefire agreement reached in October.