In a series of high-level talks, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on Palestinians to unite in the face of Israel's ongoing assault on Gaza. The president's office confirmed that he held crucial discussions with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Istanbul, emphasizing the importance of solidarity during these challenging times.

Turkey has been vocal in its condemnation of Israel's military intervention in Gaza, which has intensified since October 7 last year. As tensions continue to rise in the region, with Gaza preparing for an imminent Israeli offensive on Rafah, as well as reported attacks by Israel on Iran, President Erdogan stressed the need for Palestinians to stand firmly together against Israel.

Erdogan stated, "It is vital that Palestinians act with unity in this process. The strongest response to Israel and the path to victory lie in unity and integrity," as per a statement released by the Turkish presidency. Erdogan further expressed concerns that recent events must not divert attention from the ongoing crisis in Gaza and urged the international community to remain engaged.

Hamas, a Palestinian political and military group, has maintained an office in Turkey since 2011. The formation of this office was facilitated by Turkey's instrumental role in brokering an agreement for the release of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. Erdogan has maintained regular contact with Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, and has been an ardent advocate for the Palestinian cause.

Al Jazeera's correspondent Sinem Koseoglu, reporting from Istanbul, highlighted Turkey's commitment to keeping the Gaza crisis in the international spotlight. "Erdogan asserted that the tension between Iran and Israel should not overshadow what is going on in Gaza," Koseoglu said. She added that Turkey would continue diplomatic efforts to ensure the issue remains a priority for the global community.

In a separate meeting, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan engaged in talks with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry. Both ministers emphasized the urgency of delivering humanitarian aid to the devastated Gaza Strip, where the threat of famine looms large. Shoukry called for the opening of the six Israeli crossings with Gaza to facilitate the much-needed aid, stressing that the failure to do so violates international law.

Furthermore, Fidan and Shoukry urged Iran and Israel to exercise restraint, following direct attacks on each other's territory, which have heightened fears of a regional war. To date, Turkey has been one of Gaza's most significant partners in providing humanitarian aid, having already sent 45,000 tonnes of supplies and medicine to the region.

Amidst these developments, Israel has announced preparations for an offensive on the city of Rafah, where over 1.2 million Palestinians have sought shelter after fleeing conflict-ridden areas within Gaza. The recent reported Israeli attack on Iran's Isfahan province, in response to Iran's direct strike on Israel, has further dimmed hopes for a peaceful resolution in Gaza.

Since October, Israeli attacks on Gaza have resulted in the deaths of over 34,000 people, with more than 76,900 individuals sustaining injuries. In Israel, the death toll from Hamas's attacks on October 7 stands at 1,139, with dozens of captives still held in Gaza. It is estimated that around 250 hostages were taken, with 129 still believed to be in Gaza, including 34 presumed dead.

As the situation in Gaza remains critical, the international community watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough that will bring an end to the escalating conflict and restore peace to the region.