Ankara: In a major diplomatic move, Turkey has completely severed trade ties with Israel and closed its airspace to Israeli aircraft, citing Tel Aviv’s ongoing military aggression in Gaza and other occupied territories, reported the News18.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan made the announcement during an extraordinary parliamentary session on Friday. He accused Israel of committing “massacres against Palestinians” and pursuing “aggressive policies” not only in Gaza but also in Jerusalem, the West Bank, Syria, Iran, and Lebanon.
“We have completely cut off our trade with Israel. Our ports are closed to Israeli ships, and Turkish vessels are banned from docking at Israeli ports. No other country has taken such a complete step,” Fidan declared.
The minister further alleged that Israel was attempting to render Gaza uninhabitable by blocking humanitarian aid and “using starvation as a weapon.” He criticised the international community for failing to act and warned that Israel’s policies, backed by the United States, were undermining the two-state solution.
Fidan confirmed that Turkey would continue diplomatic coordination with Qatar and Egypt to work towards a lasting resolution while firmly opposing any plan that involves the forced displacement of Palestinians.
Turkey and Israel had maintained a free-trade agreement since 1997, with key exports including steel, oil, and plastics. However, Turkish port authorities have now instructed shipping agents to verify that vessels are not linked to Israel or carrying military cargo.
According to Gaza’s health authorities, Israeli strikes since October 7, 2023, have killed 62,966 Palestinians and injured 159,266. Over 9,000 remain missing, while at least 317 people — including 121 children — have died of starvation amid severe restrictions on humanitarian aid.
This development is expected to further strain Turkey-Israel relations, which have witnessed repeated diplomatic rifts over the Palestinian issue in recent years.
