The diplomatic relations between Israel and Turkey have been put under strain as Israel has decided to recall its diplomats from Turkey in the wake of Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, labeling Israel a “war criminal” over its actions in the Gaza Strip. The move is a significant escalation of tensions between the two countries, which had restored diplomatic ties last year after years of estrangement. Erdogan’s rhetoric has become increasingly strident, with him accusing Israel of committing war crimes, and his comments have caused widespread outrage in Israel.
The death toll in the Gaza conflict has surpassed 7,700 in the past three weeks, with Erdogan describing Israel’s actions as verging on “genocide” and urging his people to join a massive protest rally in Istanbul to show solidarity with the Palestinians. Turkey has been critical of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians, and its government has engaged in talks with Hamas to secure the release of over 220 hostages held by the militant group.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Eli Cohen, has announced the recall of Israeli diplomats from Turkey for a reassessment of ties between the two countries, amidst increasing accusations and counter-accusations from both sides. The International Criminal Court is already investigating alleged crimes in the Palestinian territories, including war crimes allegations from the current Israel-Hamas war. The timing of the diplomatic recall is significant, coming as it does after Israel and Turkey reopened their ambassadors’ offices last year, and it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold in the coming days and weeks.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Eli Cohen (Via Eli Cohen/Twitter)
The situation is fraught with danger, with both sides digging in their heels and neither side willing to back down. Erdogan has been a vocal critic of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians since taking office in 2003, and his comments have caused widespread outrage in Israel. The Israeli government has accused Turkey of hosting Hamas officials and supporting the group, while Turkey has been critical of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians.
It is unclear what mechanism Turkey would use to formally accuse Israel of committing war crimes, or what the consequences would be. The recall of diplomats marks a significant escalation of tensions between Israel and Turkey, and it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold.
