Turkish Foreign Minister urges U.S. intervention to halt Israeli attacks on Gaza

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called on U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to leverage American influence to put an end to Israeli attacks on Gaza and the West Bank. Turkey, advocating a two-state solution, strongly criticized Israel, urging a comprehensive ceasefire and the trial of Israeli leaders for alleged war crimes.

Despite labeling Israel as a “terror state,” Turkey maintained commercial ties, though Trade Minister Omer Bolat disclosed a 48% drop in trade since October 7.

Fidan stressed the worsening situation in Gaza and the West Bank due to Israeli actions, emphasizing the need for Israel’s participation in negotiations after a complete ceasefire. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan echoed these sentiments in a recent call with U.S. President Joe Biden, asserting the U.S.’s historic responsibility to achieve a ceasefire.

Bilateral issues, Sweden’s NATO membership bid, and Ankara’s request to purchase F-16 fighter jets were also discussed during the call between Fidan and Blinken. While Turkey sought to buy 40 Lockheed Martin F-16 fighters and 79 modernization kits, hurdles remained, including concerns in the U.S. Congress over Turkey’s human rights record and its delay in endorsing Sweden’s NATO bid. Sweden, seeking NATO membership since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, faced resistance from Turkey and Hungary, prolonging its wait for alliance inclusion.