Turkey announced on Friday that it would suspend all trade with Israel until there was a “permanent cease-fire” in Gaza, adding to international sanctions against Israel amid mounting global pressure to end the war. Israel continued preparations for an offensive in Rafah, leading the United Nations to warn of a potential massacre in Gaza. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan cited Israel’s “uncompromising attitude” as the reason for the trade suspension, with Israel’s foreign minister responding by calling Erdogan a dictator who disregards international agreements.
Turkey’s trade surplus with Israel totals $5.4 billion in exports and $1.64 billion in imports, making the suspension a significant blow to Israel’s economy. Erdogan has been vocal in his criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and has met with Hamas leaders, vowing that Israel will pay for the atrocities committed against Palestinians. The war has led to Israel’s increasing isolation, with some countries downgrading or cutting ties, while even close allies like the United States, Britain, and Germany have become more critical of Israel’s actions.
The Biden administration has not shown any signs of pulling back military support for Israel, despite concerns about an Israeli offensive in Rafah that could lead to a humanitarian disaster. The United Nations has warned of a possible “slaughter of civilians” in Rafah if Israel carries out a ground offensive, which could also disrupt humanitarian operations in Gaza. Israel insists that it will continue offensive operations until Hamas is eliminated as a military threat, with Rafah identified as a key target due to the presence of militant groups in tunnels there.
Turkey’s decision to suspend trade with Israel further highlights the toll that the ongoing war in Gaza is taking on Israel’s global standing. The conflict has strained relations between Israel and Turkey, which had recently announced plans to restore full diplomatic ties. As Israel’s allies call for a cease-fire, there are renewed calls for credible steps towards establishing a Palestinian state, a move strongly opposed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Efforts to broker a cease-fire and release hostages in Gaza are ongoing, with diplomatic negotiations involving Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.
The war in Gaza has prompted countries like Spain and Ireland to advocate for recognizing a Palestinian state, a move opposed by Israel. The United States has reiterated its support for the eventual establishment of a Palestinian state but insists that recognition should come after negotiations between Israeli and Palestinian leaders. The director of the CIA, William Burns, arrived in Cairo for talks on a possible cease-fire in Gaza, with Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. leading efforts to broker a deal. Hamas has announced its commitment to reaching an agreement that would end the aggression, withdraw occupation forces, provide humanitarian aid, and begin reconstruction in Gaza.
