Ankara: In response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Turkey has taken a firm stance by imposing export restrictions on Israel. The Turkish Trade Ministry announced on Tuesday that a wide array of products, including steel and jet fuel, will face export limitations until a ceasefire is established in Gaza. This move marks Ankara’s first significant action against Israel following six months of conflict.
Turkey has vehemently condemned Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which was initiated after the rampage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on October 7. Ankara has been vocal in calling for an immediate ceasefire, advocating for measures to hold Israel accountable for alleged genocide, and providing substantial aid to Gazans.
Despite its strong rhetoric against Israel, Turkey has maintained commercial ties, leading to domestic backlash. However, in response to Israel’s rejection of Turkey’s request to participate in an aid air-drop, Ankara announced the implementation of export restrictions, effective immediately.
The restrictions cover exports from 54 different categories, including iron, marble, steel, cement, aluminum, brick, fertilizer, construction equipment, aviation fuel, and more. The Turkish Trade Ministry emphasized that these measures will persist until Israel complies with its obligations under international law, declares a ceasefire in Gaza, and facilitates the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into the region.
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This move comes after Turkey and Israel recalled their ambassadors at the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict. President Tayyip Erdogan has faced mounting criticism over his government’s commercial ties with Israel, with recent protests in Istanbul demanding an end to trade relations. In response, authorities have taken action, including the suspension of police officers involved in detaining protestors.
Erdogan’s stance on Israel and the Gaza conflict has been a divisive issue, contributing to losses for his party in recent local elections. The Islamist New Welfare Party (Yeniden Refah) has gained support by adopting a more hardline approach toward Gaza.
Despite the diplomatic tensions, trade between Turkey and Israel has continued. According to data from the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM), exports to Israel have increased monthly in 2024, reaching $423.2 million in March. However, overall exports for the first quarter of the year have declined by 21.6% compared to the previous year, reflecting the economic impact of the ongoing conflict.
