Türkiye cuts economic ties with Israel, closes airspace amid Gaza crisis

Türkiye is severing all economic and trade ties with Israel and closing its airspace to Israeli aircraft, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced during an extraordinary session of parliament on the Gaza Strip.

“For two years, Israel has been committing genocide in Gaza and ignoring basic human values in front of the whole world. We oppose the plan to deport the Palestinian people from Gaza. Regardless of who represents it, such a plan is invalid for us,” Fidan said, according to Turkish media.

He added that Ankara will continue working with like-minded countries to push for a complete suspension of Israel’s participation in the UN General Assembly.

“There is growing public outrage in Western countries over the genocide being committed by Israel. Governments are saying they can no longer ignore it. It is extremely important that this reaction becomes more collective. In this context, we will continue to take steps together with like-minded countries to stop trade with Israel, completely suspend Israel's participation in the UN Assembly, and stop the supply of weapons and ammunition to Israel,” the minister stressed.

Fidan also highlighted Türkiye’s role in influencing international positions on the Palestinian issue.

“Thanks to Türkiye's efforts, even countries that previously supported Israel have now begun to advocate for a two-state solution — Palestine and Israel. Countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Malta, New Zealand, Portugal, and Australia have announced their intention to recognise the State of Palestine. This is a historic turning point in international diplomacy in the context of the Palestinian issue,” he said.

He outlined Türkiye’s dual focus in its diplomatic strategy: “Ensuring the immediate cessation of the ongoing genocide and war and the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid” and “keeping the two-state solution on the agenda and ensuring its international recognition. If Israel continues its uncompromising policy in Palestine, ignoring international law, this will undoubtedly have regional and global consequences. Therefore, we will continue our contacts with key players to reduce tensions in our region and promote peace initiatives.”

Fidan concluded by addressing regional concerns: “We will not allow Syria's ancient and valuable communities to be used for these perverse (contrary to territorial integrity) purposes.”

By Tamilla Hasanova