Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Friday that Turkey’s decision to suspend trade with Israel was aimed at pressuring the Israeli government into agreeing to a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
He made these remarks during a meeting with the board of directors of the Independent Industrialists and Businessmen Association in Istanbul, as reported by the presidency’s website.
Erdogan also stated that the government would work closely with the business community to manage the consequences of halting trade with Israel.
Turkey halted all trade activities with Israel on Thursday, citing Israel’s “non-stop violence” against Palestinians in Gaza, according to the Turkish Trade Ministry.
The president added that Turkey’s decision could serve as a model for other countries concerned about the current situation.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz strongly criticized Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent move, enacted late on Thursday, stating that it violates international trade agreements and resembles the actions of a dictator.
In contrast, the militant group Hamas, which governs Gaza, applauded the decision as courageous and supportive of Palestinian rights.
This marks Ankara’s most decisive action following months of strong condemnation of Israel’s military campaign, which has devastated the densely populated Palestinian enclave. Erdogan had been facing mounting pressure at home for more concrete measures.
