To survive Hamas's strengthening: Abu Mazen's dramatic move with Israel's close friends

Abu Mazen is strengthening his ties with Greece and Cyprus, rivals of Turkey, while Ankara increases its support for the Palestinians. A Turkish commentator explains that the move is intended to expand the international support base of the Palestinian Authority and preserve its political standing, while Turkey refrains from confrontation to maintain its ties with both Palestinian sides.

The article analyzes the political move by Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen), who is strengthening his ties with Greece and Cyprus, Turkey's regional rivals, while Ankara increases its support for the Palestinians. A Turkish commentator named Yildirim explains that Abu Mazen is working to expand the PA's international support base and strengthen its position as the official Palestinian representative, while exploiting the rift between Fatah and Hamas. Cyprus, which recognized a Palestinian state in 1988, has transferred more than 37,000 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza through the 'Amalthea' maritime corridor as of August 2026. According to the commentator, Turkey refrains from a direct confrontation with Abu Mazen to maintain its ability to keep ties with both Palestinian sides and preserve its diplomatic maneuvering room. The article emphasizes that Abu Mazen's moves make clear that the PA's interests are not necessarily subordinate to Turkey's priorities.