Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has responded to Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip by halting all trade with Israel, according to a report by Bloomberg. This move comes as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate, with Turkey previously imposing export restrictions on certain goods in trade with Israel.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz expressed anger over the decision, accusing Erdogan of breaking agreements by blocking ports for Israeli imports and exports. In response, Katz criticized Erdogan for disregarding the interests of the Turkish people and business people, and for ignoring international trade agreements.
Erdogan has been a vocal critic of the Israeli military operation in Gaza, accusing Israel of committing genocide against the Palestinians. In addition to halting trade, Turkey announced its intention to join South Africa’s genocide lawsuit against Israel. This legal action stems from allegations of genocide committed during the Gaza war, which Israel denies, citing the right to self-defense against attacks by Hamas and other extremist organizations.
Despite ongoing tensions between them, both countries are committed to finding new trade partners and strengthening their economies. The situation continues to evolve as both countries take measures to assert their positions on the conflict in Gaza.