Turkish authorities have forwarded nine suspects to trial on Monday for alleged collaboration with Israel's Mossad intelligence agency.

The prosecution accuses them of "selling intelligence to operatives affiliated with the Mossad."
Acting on warrants issued by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, police anti-terror and intelligence branch officers carried out raids in Istanbul and Izmir, arresting seven suspects.

Two other suspects in the investigation were thought to have been detained earlier.

According to security sources, the Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT) gathered intelligence indicating that Mossad was conducting surveillance activities within Türkiye through private investigators.

The suspects allegedly engaged in monitoring, photographing, and tracking designated targets on behalf of Mossad.

The ongoing investigation by Istanbul's public prosecution implicates the nine suspects in the illicit exchange of intelligence with Mossad through intermediary operatives.

Playing with fire

Türkiye warned of the potential escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

During an interview on Sunday, Turkish Minister Hakan Fidan said, "We need to avoid the spread (of confrontation) in the region. The situation is not good”.

He added that both parties are “playing with fire.”

Fidan said that Israel prioritizes territorial expansion over its security, adding that it will feel safe after it stops "telling lies” and gives Palestinians their state.

He characterized the residents of Gaza as "hostages," adding that Israel imposes restrictions on their movement and access to humanitarian aid while also targeting infrastructure and essential services.

The Turkish minister asserted that one of Hamas' objectives is to release the hostages in exchange for a permanent ceasefire. However, he expressed skepticism about Israel's commitment to such an agreement, citing its reluctance to pursue a lasting ceasefire.