It could have been different. Turkey could have been a great engine of world peace, a natural mediator between Arabs and Jews, but for now, it must endure yet more of the man who crushed its freedom.
Ugur Ozel, Turkish opposition leader, labeled Hamas a terrorist organization in a TV interview, sparking controversy. Ozel criticized Hamas for attacks on civilians.
Both countries are expected to increase trade and energy cooperation, among others, but historical disputes will still stand in the way of friendship.
Analysts attribute Erdoğan’s decision to halt trade with Israel to poor results for his party in local Turkish elections last month.
A Turkish official later said Erdogan had "misspoke" and meant that Gazans more generally were being treated in Turkey.
Finance Minister Smotrich urges Prime Minister Netanyahu to remove Turkey from ceasefire talks, citing Erdogan's antisemitism and threats to Israel's security.
Erdogan met Hamas leader Haniyeh to discuss Gaza aid and regional peace amid tensions with Israel. They emphasized support for Palestine and called for unity.
"This decision will remain in place until Israel, under its obligations emanating from international law, urgently declares a ceasefire in Gaza and allows the unhindered flow of... aid," Turkey said.
The vote was, in essence, a choice between an authoritarian religious party and parties representing a tradition of secular nationalism.
Sunday votes in Turkey resulted in the most significant blow to President Tayyip Erdogan and his party, reinforcing Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu as his main political rival.
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