Turkish trade ministry clarifies 15 FAQs about Türkiye’s embargo on Israel

Türkiye’s Minister of Trade released a press statement explaining the trade embargo on Israel and addressing 15 frequently asked questions.

Titled “Information Note on the Suspension of Trade with Israel,” the ministry stated that no cargo originating from Israeli ports or bearing Israeli origin, and not included in the Türkiye-Palestine bilateral trade mechanism, would be permitted to unload at Turkish ports or be transported from Türkiye to Israel.

The ministry outlined the steps taken since the process began, emphasizing the decisions made in response to Israel’s attacks on Palestine.

15 answered FAQs on Türkiye’s trade prohibition with Israel

1. Did trade with Israel continue after Oct. 7, 2023?

Trade between Türkiye and Israel dropped significantly, with exports falling by 30% and imports by 43.4%. By May 2, 2024, all trade was completely halted.

2. Is Free Trade Agreement still active?

While technically in effect, the agreement remains inactive because of the trade ban.

3. Do Turkish ships dock at Israeli ports?

Most goods to Palestine must pass through Israeli-controlled Haifa and Ashdod. A special Türkiye-Palestine mechanism ensures shipments are verified.

4. Are ships rerouting to Israel after declaring another destination?

Türkiye monitors and intervenes to prevent abuse in its maritime zones.

5. Is there indirect trade with Israel via neighboring countries?

No irregularities suggest such activity; trade trends are consistent globally.

6. Why send goods like steel or cosmetics to Palestine during the war?

Palestine requires essentials like cleaning products and construction materials. Palestinian authorities closely monitored and approved trade.

7. Are Israeli cargo ships allowed at Turkish ports?

No Israeli goods or ships are permitted unless part of the Türkiye-Palestine mechanism.

8. Does trade data show ongoing activity with Israel?

Turkish Statistical Institute (TURKSTAT) data confirms there was no trade since May 2024.

9. Does Israel claim trade continues with Türkiye?

Trade is limited to Palestinian goods via Israeli customs.

10. How did Israel react to the ban?

Israel criticized Türkiye’s decision and filed complaints about the OECD.

11. Is oil being sent to Israel through Türkiye?

Claims of oil shipments are baseless, according to the Ministry of Energy and National Resources.

12. Why has trade with Palestine increased?

The rise is because of statistical effects, but it remains below prior levels.

13. Did Türkiye export jet fuel to Israel?

No. Pre-war claims involve refueling Israeli tourist planes before Oct. 7, 2023.

14. Were explosives exported to Israel?

Türkiye has banned defense-related exports to Israel, even before Oct. 7.

15. How are goods reaching Palestine despite Israeli restrictions?

Deliveries to the West Bank continue under international agreements, though Gaza remains blocked.