Türkiye on Saturday voiced "deep" concern over the recent escalation between Israel and Palestine, saying it is ready to help de-escalate situation.

"We are deeply concerned about the violence and tension in Israel and Palestine today. We attach great importance to the restoration of tranquility in the region as soon as possible, and we strongly condemn the loss of civilian lives.

Türkiye voices 'deep' concern over the recent escalation between Israel and Palestine, saying it is ready to help de-escalate situation https://t.co/SEFsI308SU pic.twitter.com/bpGzeXUFZ3

— Anadolu English (@anadoluagency) October 7, 2023

"We emphasize that acts of violence and related escalations will not benefit anyone, and we call on the parties to act with restraint and avoid impulsive steps," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Ankara is ready to contribute to ensure the situation does not escalate further, the ministry said, adding: "In this regard, we continue our intensive contacts with relevant parties."

"These sad developments once again show the importance of the two-state solution vision. We invite the parties to give up the use of force and work for a permanent solution in line with this vision, without further delay," it added.

The statement came after Palestinian group Hamas said it launched Operation Al-Aqsa Flood with rockets targeting enemy sites, airports, and military installations.

In response, the Israeli army initiated Operation Iron Swords against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

At least 198 Palestinians have been killed in the air attacks, according to medical sources in Gaza, while Israeli authorities said more than 100 Israelis were killed in what has been described as "war" by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Hamas, the group running the blockaded Gaza Strip, said its operation was in response to desecration of Al-Aqsa Mosque and increased settler violence.

Ankara supports a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, including the establishment of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Advisory

In a separate warning message to Turkish citizens living in Israel and Palestine, the ministry said it was "closely" following the developments, and advised them "to continue to stay in safe closed areas."

It recommended the citizens to follow the official websites and social media accounts of the Turkish Embassy in Tel Aviv, Turkish Consulate General in Jerusalem and Turkish Foreign Ministry for developments.