Turkey Recalls Ambassador to Israel, Seeks ICC Action over War Crimes in Gaza

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
04/11/2023 21h13

In a strong stance against Israel's ongoing aggression in the Gaza Strip, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared his country's unwavering support for the people affected by the conflict. Erdogan has pledged to take concrete action to bring Israeli war crimes in the besieged enclave to the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Erdogan reiterated Turkey's position while aboard the presidential plane on Saturday, during his return from a summit in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana. He asserted that Turkey would sever all contact with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu due to the occupying regime's alleged crimes in Gaza. Erdogan declared that Netanyahu has lost the support of Israeli citizens and is no longer someone with whom the Turkish government can engage in dialogue.

Expressing his deep concern, Erdogan emphasized that nothing could justify Israel's human rights violations and war crimes. Turkey intends to support initiatives that will hold Israel accountable before the ICC for its actions. Specifically, Erdogan highlighted the responsibility borne by Netanyahu for the ongoing violence and stressed that Ankara is prepared to act as a guarantor country for Gaza's protection.

Erdogan's recent statements come only a day after his strong denunciation of Israel's "crimes against humanity" in Gaza. As a direct response to the escalating situation, Turkey has recalled its ambassador to Tel Aviv for consultations, according to the Turkish Foreign Ministry. The recall of Ambassador Sakir Ozkan Torunlar demonstrates Turkey's growing concern over the humanitarian tragedy inflicted on civilians in Gaza and Israel's refusal to comply with ceasefire calls and facilitate the unhindered flow of humanitarian aid.

It is worth mentioning that Israeli diplomats in Turkey had already left the country last month due to security concerns arising from nationwide protests in support of the Palestinian people. Turkey's withdrawal of its ambassador further heightens tensions between the two countries.

In conclusion, Turkey, under the leadership of President Erdogan, is taking decisive action to address the situation in Gaza and hold Israel accountable for alleged war crimes. The recall of its ambassador and the prospect of pursuing legal action at the ICC signify Turkey's commitment to seeking justice for the people affected by the conflict. The international community now awaits further developments and the potential impact of Turkey's actions on the ongoing crisis.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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