Speaking With President Herzog On The Phone, President Erdogan Wants Palestinians Allowed To Enter Israel During Ramadan, 24-Hour Access To Al-Aqsa Mosque

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. (Wikimedia Commons/World Economic Forum/Andy Mettler)

JAKARTA - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Israeli President Isaac Herzog that Palestinians should be allowed to enter Israel during the month of Ramadan 1443 Hijri or 2022.

Speaking with his colleague on a phone call last week, President Erdogan also welcomed recent Israeli and Palestinian statements calling for an easing of tensions.

While citing The Times of Israel, President Erdoan also urged Israel to ensure full 24-hour access to Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan. In addition, he also asked Israel to maintain its policy of only allowing Muslims to pray in the compound, according to a statement from President Erdogan's office

Turkey and Israel have recently stepped up relations, with energy as a conciliatory force.

"The two presidents stressed that on the eve of the Ramadan and Easter holidays there is a need for action to maintain calm throughout the region," said a statement from President Herzog's Office.

In the same phone call, President Herzog also wished President Erdoan a happy fasting worship and the citizens of Turkey, who immediately received a reply.

"On behalf of myself and all Turkish people, I would like to wish the Israeli people and the Jewish people a Happy Easter," said President Erdogan.

It is known, last month President Herzog visited Turkey for talks with President Erdogan. The Turkish leader said he would send foreign and energy ministers to Israel for talks.

Turkey, which supports a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, said it believes rapprochement with Israel will also help find a solution to the problem. However, it will not neglect its commitment to Palestine for better relations with Israel.