- Planes carrying weapons to Israel are banned from Turkish airspace.
- Restrictions apply to Israeli government and military flights, not commercial aircraft.
- Turkish ports require proof of no Israeli ties or military cargo.
Turkey has officially cut off all trade and transport connections with Israel, shutting its ports to Israeli ships and preventing Turkish vessels from entering Israeli waters. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced these measures during a special parliamentary session on Friday, stating they are a direct response to Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza. Fidan informed lawmakers that Turkey has completely severed trade relations with Israel, clarifying that Israeli ships can no longer dock at Turkish ports, and Turkish-flagged vessels are barred from Israeli ports, reports Marine Insight.
Airspace Restrictions
The foreign minister also mentioned that any planes transporting weapons or ammunition to Israel are now prohibited from using Turkish airspace. A Turkish diplomatic source later specified that these restrictions are aimed specifically at Israeli government and military flights, not at commercial air traffic.
Port Authorities Tighten Controls
Sources indicate that Turkish port authorities have already directed shipping agents to provide letters confirming that their vessels have no connections to Israel and are not carrying military or hazardous cargo intended for the country.
Humanitarian Efforts Linked to Gaza
Fidan emphasised that Turkey’s actions come alongside humanitarian initiatives. He said that Turkish planes are ready to conduct aid airdrops over Gaza once Jordan approves. “Our planes are ready, once Jordan gives its approval, we will be in a position to go,” he told parliament.
Accusations Against Israel
Ankara accuses Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, a charge Israel strongly denies. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has also directly compared Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Adolf Hitler.
Fidan, addressing parliament, stated: “Israel had been committing genocide in Gaza for the past two years, ignoring basic humanitarian values right before the world’s eyes.”
Trade Relations Severed
The two countries used to enjoy a strong economic partnership, with bilateral trade hitting about $7 billion in 2023. However, in May 2024, Turkey decided to halt direct trade with Israel, insisting on a permanent ceasefire and the urgent provision of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
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Source: Marine Insight
