Türkiye Bans Israeli Ships and Flights Amid Gaza Conflict

Türkiye has officially barred Israeli ships and flights from its ports and airspace, a move that represents a significant escalation in the ongoing diplomatic rift over the conflict in Gaza. On August 29, 2023, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced the decision during a parliamentary session, stating that the country would deny access to any vessels or aircraft connected to Israel.

In his televised address, Fidan emphasized, “We have closed our ports to Israeli ships. We do not allow Turkish ships to go to Israeli ports. Container ships carrying weapons and ammunition for Israel will not be allowed entry, nor will their aircraft be permitted in our airspace.” A Turkish diplomatic source clarified that the ban specifically targets “all aircraft carrying weapons (to Israel) and Israel’s official flights.”

Growing Tensions Between Türkiye and Israel

The relationship between Ankara and Tel Aviv has deteriorated sharply in recent months, particularly following Israel’s military operations in Gaza. In May 2022, Türkiye suspended all trade with Israel, accusing the nation of committing “genocide” against Palestinians, a claim that Israel has vehemently rejected.

Recent developments indicate that the situation is worsening. On August 28, 2023, ZIM Integrated Shipping Services, Israel’s largest shipping company, reported that it had received notice of new Turkish regulations preventing vessels owned or operated by Israeli-linked entities from docking in Turkish ports. This regulation also prohibits ships carrying military cargo destined for Israel.

The company highlighted in a filing to the New York Stock Exchange that these restrictions would have a “negative impact” on its financial results.

Official Acknowledgment of Trade Suspension

Fidan’s statements mark the first official acknowledgment of the ban by Turkish authorities. During the emergency session focused on Gaza, he noted, “No other country has cut off trade with Israel.” Turkish officials have maintained that all trade with Israel has ceased, countering opposition claims that shipments, particularly oil from Azerbaijan, continue to reach Israel through Turkish territory.

Despite Azerbaijan’s historical role as a significant oil supplier to Israel, recent customs data no longer list Israel among its buyers, according to reports from Israel’s Haaretz newspaper. This indicates a potential shift in energy trade dynamics in the region.

The decision to close ports and airspace to Israeli entities signifies a further intensification of Türkiye’s pressure campaign against Israel, which has also included restricting overflight rights for Israeli leaders in recent months. As the situation in Gaza remains volatile, the implications of these actions may reverberate throughout the region and beyond.