Foreign Minister Fidan Emphasizes Turkey's Rejection of the Idea of Normalizing Relations with Israel

JAKARTA - Turkey is unlikely to normalize relations with Israel, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Thursday, referring to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's genocidal policies.

That was said by Foreign Minister Fidan when answering a journalist's question about regional developments, including the situation in Gaza.

When a Greek journalist asked what Turkey's opinion was on Washington's desire to see Turkey and Israel rebuild relations and on what terms, Foreign Minister Fidan said they were very clear on this issue.

"You know the wishes and vision of our president. Turkey has recognized Israel for a long time. We have repeatedly said why we decided to cut ties and trade with Israel. That's because of the genocide carried out after October 7, 2023," he said, launching Daily Sabah (15/1).

Previously, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met in New York about a month before the start of a new round of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in 2023, reportedly to revive relations that had deteriorated due to Israel's past policies towards the Palestinians.

"When Israel stops the pressure and cruelty that targets the Palestinians, Turkey will have no problem normalizing relations. As long as their regional policies continue, as long as they bomb cities, kill children and women, it is impossible to normalize relations with them," said Foreign Minister Fidan.

"You don't see anyone visiting Tel Aviv except the Greek Prime Minister," he said, referring to a recent trilateral meeting between the leaders of Israel, Greece, and Greek Cyprus.

"No one goes there, and Netanyahu doesn't go anywhere because everyone knows that posing with Netanyahu is not a good thing these days," said Foreign Minister Fidan.

Turkey itself has championed the Palestinian cause against the relentless onslaught from PM Netanyahu's Government. Nevertheless, Ankara prioritizes diplomacy over military action and recently joined Trump's efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza.

On the other hand, Israel has repeatedly violated the ceasefire over the past few months.

Israel also opposes Turkey's contribution to a future Gaza stabilization force, which would consist of peacekeepers from various countries.

Meanwhile, Turkey has expressed its willingness to join other countries in the stabilization force and expressed its readiness to contribute to the reconstruction of Gaza.