Turkish rescue team awaits Israeli clearance for Gaza mission
AFAD specialists equipped for search and recovery remain at Egypt border pending Israeli approval to enter enclave
ANKARA, Türkiye (MNTV) — A Turkish disaster response team is stationed at the Egyptian border awaiting Israeli authorization to enter Gaza and begin search and recovery operations amid ongoing humanitarian efforts following a US-brokered ceasefire.
The 81-member unit from Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) is equipped with advanced life-detection devices, specialized rescue tools, and trained dogs to help locate and recover bodies trapped under rubble across the devastated enclave.
“They are currently waiting at the border on the Egyptian side,” a Turkish official told AFP on Friday, noting that Israeli approval remains pending. “Initially, Israel preferred to work with a Qatari team, but we are hopeful our delegation will be granted access soon.”
A Hamas source said the Turkish team is expected to enter Gaza by Sunday. The AFAD personnel, experienced in large-scale disaster operations, previously led emergency efforts during the February 2023 earthquake in southeastern Türkiye, which claimed more than 53,000 lives.
The mission, according to officials, aims to locate both Palestinian and Israeli bodies, including hostages possibly buried beneath collapsed buildings.
However, search efforts could be complicated by reports that some Israeli captives were disguised in local clothing to avoid drone detection during transfers.
“This situation is expected to complicate operations and delay progress,” the official added, noting that Hamas is expected to provide location data to assist the team.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
