Turkish, British foreign ministers discuss developments in Gaza

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and his British counterpart James Cleverly met in Ankara on Friday to discuss the latest developments in Gaza, the Palestine enclave under Israeli bombardment and blockade since Oct. 7.

"Latest developments regarding Palestine-Israel conflict were discussed at the meeting," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The conflict in Gaza began when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip, along with stepping up raids and arrests in the occupied West Bank.

The Israeli siege has left the 2.3 million residents of Gaza with little food, water, fuel and medical supplies.

At least 4,137 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while the figure stands at more than 1,400 people in Israel.