Turkey-Israel Relations: A Complex History and Uncertain Future

An Introduction to the Turkey-Israel Relationship

Türkiye and Israel have a long and complex relationship marked by both cooperation and conflict.

Diplomatic relations were established between the two countries in 1949, and Turkey was one of the first countries to recognize the State of Israel.

Israel, in its early years, saw Turkey as a crucial ally due to its border with the Soviet Union.

Historical Cooperation and Tensions

In the early decades of their relationship, Turkey and Israel enjoyed a period of close cooperation, particularly in military matters.

Turkey provided Israel with military equipment and training, and the two countries cooperated on intelligence sharing.

However, tensions began to emerge in the 1960s, primarily over Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories.

The 1967 Six-Day War

The 1967 Six-Day War marked a turning point in the Turkey-Israel relationship.

Turkey strongly condemned Israel's occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Sinai Peninsula.

Diplomatic relations were downgraded, and Turkey began to distance itself from Israel.

Growing Distance and Diplomatic Crisis

In the following years, Turkey and Israel continued to cooperate on certain issues, but their relationship remained strained.

Turkey's support for the Palestinian cause grew stronger, and it became increasingly critical of Israel's policies in the occupied territories.

The relationship reached a crisis point in 2010 when Israeli commandos raided a Turkish ship carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, resulting in the deaths of nine Turkish activists.

Recent Developments and Uncertain Future

Since the 2010 crisis, Turkey and Israel have taken steps to repair their relationship.

Diplomatic relations were restored in 2016, and there have been efforts to strengthen economic and military cooperation.

However, tensions persist, particularly over the issue of Palestine.

Changing Dynamics in the Middle East

The changing political dynamics in the Middle East, including the rise of ISIS and the ongoing conflict in Syria, have also impacted the Turkey-Israel relationship.

Turkey and Israel have found common ground in their opposition to ISIS, but they differ on how to address the conflict in Syria.

Turkey supports the Syrian opposition, while Israel is concerned about the potential for Iran to gain influence in the region.

Conclusion

The Turkey-Israel relationship is a complex one, marked by both cooperation and conflict.

While the two countries have taken steps to improve their relations, tensions persist, particularly over the issue of Palestine.

The future of the relationship remains uncertain, as it will be shaped by developments in the Middle East and the evolving political dynamics between the two countries.