Türkiye halts $9.5B trade with Israel, President Erdogan announces

President Erdogan emphasized the positive outcomes of his meeting with the main opposition leader while expressing serious concerns about the escalating tensions between Israel and Palestine. In response, he announced the suspension of bilateral trade with Israel.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made statements after the Friday Prayer at Cilehane Mosque in Uskudar.

Referring to his meeting with main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) Chairman Ozgur Ozel, President Erdogan said that Ozel’s visit, after becoming the party’s chairman, was a positive development between the ruling party and the main opposition.

Erdogan emphasized that similar steps had not been taken in previous periods, highlighting that this move signals a shift towards a more cooperative and conciliatory phase in Turkish politics.

“I also told Mr. Ozgur that I would reciprocate such a visit at the first opportunity. Türkiye needs this. Turkish politics need this. I want to start the softening process of politics in Türkiye by making this visit as soon as possible. We will take this step,” Erdogan added.

Trade with Israel completely ceased

President Erdogan expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between Israel and Palestine, stating that the current situation is unacceptable.

Erdogan acknowledged that Türkiye had previously taken steps that it now regrets, particularly during the recent election period where certain parties exploited the situation for political gain.

Despite efforts to improve relations with Israel, Erdogan criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his unyielding stance and the violence inflicted on innocent civilians.

He lamented the imbalance of power with Western nations, particularly the United States, seemingly siding with Israel. In response to the dire circumstances faced by the Palestinian people, Erdogan announced the suspension of bilateral trade, signaling a shift in Türkiye’s approach toward Israel.