Turkey Halts $9.5 Billion Trade with Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced that Turkey has suspended its annual trade with Israel, which had reached a volume of $9.5 billion, due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Erdogan made the announcement while speaking to reporters in Istanbul, citing the unacceptable events that have unfolded between Israel and Palestine.

Why this matters: The suspension of trade between Turkey and Israel has significant implications for the Middle East region, potentially influencing the balance of power and diplomatic relationships. This move may also inspire other countries to take a stance on the conflict, leading to a broader international response.

According to Erdogan, "Israel killed 40-45 thousand Palestinians. As Muslims, it was impossible for us to just watch. We were forced to take action and we took the action that was required." He emphasized that Turkey had to take a stand, stating, "We had a trade of 9.5 billion [US] dollars [with Israel]; now we have stopped [it]."

The Turkish President's remarks were broadcast on the X—formerly Twitter—account of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) of Turkey. The trade ban will remain in place until a permanent ceasefire is achieved and the Israeli government allows all humanitarian aid to reach Gaza without hindrance.

The announcement comes amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, which has resulted in significant humanitarian crises in Gaza. Turkey has been an important trading partner for Israel, but Erdogan faced pressure to stop trade ties with Israel due to its military actions in Gaza. The trade ban is seen as a significant move by Turkey to pressure Israel to cease its military actions in Gaza.

The United Nations humanitarian aid agency has warned that hundreds of thousands of people would be at imminent risk of death if Israel carries out a military assault in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. International mediators are trying to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, with a leaked truce proposal hinting at compromises by both sides. The war has driven around 80% of Gaza's population of 2.3 million from their homes, caused vast destruction, and pushed northern Gaza to the brink of famine.

Key Takeaways

• Turkey suspends $9.5 billion annual trade with Israel due to Gaza conflict.
• Erdogan cites "unacceptable events" between Israel and Palestine as reason.
• Trade ban to remain until permanent ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian aid.
• Turkey's move aims to pressure Israel to halt military actions in Gaza.
• International community seeks ceasefire to end violence and alleviate suffering.