Israel's Defense Minister Threatens Hamas Leader, Slams Turkish President

Katz also launched a strong attack on Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, accusing Ankara of providing support to Hamas.

In statements published on Sunday, October 11, 2026, Katz stated that Erdoğan "continues to roll out the red carpet for Hamas murderers." He alleged that Turkey permits Hamas to promote its activities from its territory, in cooperation with the Muslim Brotherhood, posing a threat to Israel and other regional Islamic nations. Directly addressing al-Hayya, Katz declared, "Israel has eliminated Hamas leaders in Gaza," adding that "al-Hayya's turn is coming," implying Israel's intention to pursue the movement's leadership.

Katz's threats followed a meeting between Khalil al-Hayya, accompanied by a Hamas leadership delegation, and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara last Friday. The meeting discussed political, field, and humanitarian developments in the Palestinian territories and Turkey's role in supporting Palestinian rights. A Hamas statement indicated the discussion covered the situation in Gaza amid ongoing Israeli bombardment, the escalating humanitarian crisis, efforts to implement a ceasefire, halt violations, and enhance humanitarian response.

Katz's remarks align with repeated Israeli threats to target Hamas leaders beyond Gaza, amidst rising tensions between Israel and Turkey. These tensions stem from Turkey's stance on the Gaza war and its relations with Hamas. Israel previously targeted Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar, in September 2025, an attack that drew regional and international criticism and revived concerns about the potential expansion of Israeli operations against Palestinian leaders abroad. Katz's statement did not announce a new operation but served as a threat to continue targeting the movement's leaders. No direct Turkish response to Katz's latest threat was immediately published.