Turkey is reportedly formulating an initiative to resettle Palestinian refugees in Kurdish regions of Turkey and the occupied territories of Cyprus, according to a report from the American GIS/Defence & Foreign Affairs, as disclosed by the Turkish Cypriot website “Bugün Kıbrıs.”
The report, authored by Gregory R. Copley, suggests that Turkey is planning the resettlement of up to 250,000 Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to areas predominantly inhabited by Kurds in southeastern Turkey and the occupied regions of Cyprus.
At the core of the plan is Turkey’s intention, reportedly coordinated by the Turkish National Intelligence Organisation (MIT), to conduct a “humanitarian transportation and resettlement” of Palestinians from Gaza to southeastern Turkey. The report also highlights the relocation of refugees to the occupied areas, notably in the broader region of Famagusta.
The strategic objectives of Turkey’s plan, as outlined in the report, encompass positioning Turkey as a benefactor in the Islamic world, supported by a proposed “Special Fund” for Palestinians. Additionally, the resettlement in occupied Cyprus is seen as exerting subtle pressure for the recognition of the self-declared state in the north.
The actions of Turkey are viewed in the context of efforts to improve relations with Israel, coinciding with Israel’s intentions to relocate Palestinians from its territory. This suggests a coordinated geostrategic alignment between the two nations.
The report also suggests that Turkey’s overarching plan involves the establishment of an international body, under the auspices of the United Nations and led by Turkey, to oversee a comprehensive peace initiative aimed at resolving the Palestinian issue.
It is worth noting that, as of now, the report has not been disseminated on Turkish or other Turkish Cypriot websites but is being circulated through news agencies.
