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Palestinians applaud Erdogan win, pin hopes on Turkey

Palestinians hope Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will cut ties with Israel and focus even more on their cause.
Palestinian supporters of the Hamas movement hold portraits of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as they shout slogans against the military coup attempt in Turkey, during a demonstration in Gaza City, on July 16, 2016.
Erdogan battled to regain control over Turkey on July 16, 2016 after a coup bid by discontented soldiers, as signs grew that the most serious challenge to his 13 years of dominant rule was faltering. After a night of drama and bloodshed, at least 90 people had died and more than 1,150 pe

It's an understatement to say Palestinians like Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. They might like him more than many Turks do. Palestinians name stores — and even babies — after him.

This week, Palestinians watched closely as Turks headed to polling stations June 24 to cast their votes in the parliamentary and presidential elections. Turkey has become the Palestinian people’s No. 1 choice when it comes to tourism, education, trade and now, perhaps, in politics.

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