Israel Reacts Strongly to Turkey’s Trade Halt
In response to Turkey’s decision to halt all trade with Israel, tensions have escalated between the two nations. Israel announced measures aimed at limiting Turkish trade with the Palestinian Authority and seeking sanctions against Ankara. This move follows Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s assertion that the trade halt is intended to pressure Israel into agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza.
Foreign Minister Israel Katz condemned Erdogan’s actions, accusing him of serving Hamas’s interests and breaching agreements. Katz warned of consequences for anyone taking unilateral steps against Israel’s economy and vowed that Turkey would regret its decision.
Israel’s retaliatory measures include restricting trade between Turkey and the Palestinian Authority, petitioning for international sanctions against Turkey, and establishing alternative markets to fill the gap left by Turkish trade. Additionally, Israel plans to support businesses affected by the trade halt.
Meanwhile, Erdogan defended Turkey’s decision, stating it aims to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza and pressure Israel into agreeing to a ceasefire. He assured that Turkey would monitor the consequences of its actions in consultation with the business community.
The deteriorating relations between Israel and Turkey underscore the complex dynamics in the region and the challenges in resolving conflicts like the one in Gaza.
