Israel has condemned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for blocking its imports and exports through Turkish ports, in violation of international trade agreements. The actions of Erdogan have been described as dictatorial and against the interests of the Turkish people and businesses.
In response to the restrictions imposed by Turkey on April 9, Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz instructed officials to explore alternative trade options, focusing on local production and imports from other countries. This move is aimed at strengthening the local economy and reducing dependence on Turkish imports and exports.
The Turkish government had cited the conflict between Israelis and Hamas in Gaza as the reason for the trade restrictions. Ankara had demanded increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and accused Israel of hindering their aid efforts. In response, the Turkish Commerce Ministry announced a total suspension of trade with Israel, halting all export and import negotiations. This is a second phase of state measures aimed at pressuring Israel into allowing more humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Erdogan has been vocal in his criticism of Israel, likening their actions in Gaza to the Holocaust and drawing parallels between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Adolf Hitler. As a result of these escalating tensions, Israel is now looking to diversify its trade partnerships and reduce dependence on Turkish imports and exports.