This latest development comes as a setback in what appeared to be a tentative thaw in relations between Turkey and Israel. Historically close regional allies, their diplomatic ties hit a low point in 2010 when Israeli military forces conducted a deadly raid on a Turkish ship carrying aid supplies to Gaza, resulting in the loss of 10 civilian lives. Although relations began to mend in 2016, tensions flared once more in 2018 when Turkey expelled Israeli envoys over Israel's crackdown on peaceful Palestinian protesters at the Gaza-Israel border fence.
Erdogan's decision to cancel the visit underscores his continued and unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and his strong condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza. In his address to the Turkish parliament, Erdogan labeled Israel's bombing campaign in Gaza as "inhumane" and lambasted the Israeli government for its approach to the ongoing conflict.
The Turkish President's recent criticism comes at a time when Israeli airstrikes have devastated Gaza, resulting in the deaths of more than 6,500 people and causing widespread destruction to the region's infrastructure. Erdogan's words highlight the deeply divisive and emotional nature of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
During his address to parliament, Erdogan took the opportunity to defend Hamas, referring to them as "liberators" who are fighting to protect their lands and people. His statement aligns with his longstanding support for the Palestinian cause and his view of Hamas as a legitimate resistance movement. It's important to note that Hamas is considered a terrorist organization by several countries, including Israel, the United States, and the European Union. However, Erdogan's stance reflects the complexity of the issue and the divergent views held in different parts of the world.
Erdogan's vocal criticism of Israel is not new, and it's indicative of his two-decade-long leadership and his commitment to advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people. His stance on this issue is a deeply ingrained element of his political identity.
The Turkish President is expected to attend a mass pro-Palestinian rally in Istanbul on Saturday, organized by the governing Justice and Development Party. This event is likely to be another platform for him to express his unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and to condemn Israel's actions in Gaza.
The cancellation of Erdogan's visit and his passionate defense of Hamas highlight the ongoing and deeply rooted tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict. It serves as a reminder of the complex and deeply emotional nature of this protracted conflict and the significant role played by key regional and global leaders in shaping the narrative and influencing the course of events.
