Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced he will be cutting all trade and military ties with Israel and the former staunch Islamic ally seems determined to compel Jerusalem to issue an apology for the Marama operation.

Twenty-four hours after detaining and humiliating dozens of Israeli passengers in an Istanbul airport, Turkey appears tenacious in its desire to isolate Israel and pressure Jerusalem into admitting it erred when it sent naval commandos to board the so-called humanitarian aid ship which was heading to break Israel’s blockade of Gazan waters.

With Jerusalem remaining firm in its refusal to issue any apology, especially in light of the recently-released UN Palmer Report which blamed Israel for using excessive force, but justified the ongoing naval blockade, calling Turkey’s investigation into the incident “politically influenced” and unprofessional. The release of the report has added to Turkey’s furor towards Israel, leading to an ultimatum for an apology which was not met. Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu has since expelled Israel’s senior diplomas from Turkey as well.

Erdogan added more sanctions will follow, stating Turkish vessels will become increasingly prominent in the Mediterranean, stating he plans to visit Gaza, a move that will depend on Egyptian approval. He announced a visit is planned to meet with Egyptian state leaders next week.

Last week Turkey indicated that its own warship will escort the next humanitarian vessel heading for Gaza, threatening the Israel Navy to act to intercept such a vessel.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)