Israel-Turkey: relations become barbed

The radical statement by the prime minister of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on a complete military and trade break with Israel, marked the latest wave of tensions in relations between the two countries. However, the Turkish prime minister later said this concerns only governmental relations, not private business, but this wasn’t heard by Israel, which reacted to Erdogan’s statement very seriously.

At meetings held immediately afterwards in the Turkish-Israeli Chamber of Commerce, at the ministry of trade and industry and other political bodies of Israel, it was stated that this step by Turkey will be a serious blow to the Israeli economy. Last year, turnover between the two countries grew 26%, in the first half of 2011 it amounted to $2.335 billion. Turkey mostly exports cement, marble and other construction materials, as well as food to Israel. Turkey imports from Israel tanks, machinery, military and civilian airplane equipment, and so on.

Moreover,Turkey and Israel have many joint enterprises and projects, in which hundreds of Israeli citizens and thousands of Turkish citizens are involved.

So experts and politicians admitted that breaking ties and signed contracts with Israel could negatively influence the Israeli economy until it finds a substitute for Turkey. However, first of all Turkey is damaging its own economy. Israel has been the second major economic partner of Turkey after Italy. Moreover, Erdogan’s statement spoils the international business and financing circles’ attitude toTurkey.

Time will tell whether these appraisals are right or wrong. Furthermore, Erdogan’s statement concerned only state orders, i.e. military equipment deals. And it doesn’t affect private business, which enables businessmen of both countries to maintain friendly and partnership ties.

Erdogan confirmed that Turkey will support the UN in recognition of Palestine as a state. He plans to visit Gaza. In addition, the Turkish prime minister called Israel “a spoiled child thinking he can do anything he wants.” Erdogan didn’t agree with the results of the Palmer Commission.

Israel says that Erdogan’s statement and other unfriendly behavior from Turkey have been expected. Turkey is aiming for a strategic break with Israel, and these steps have nothing in common with the deaths of 9 Turkish citizens on the Mavi Marmara ship.

Petrom Lyukemson, Israel. Exclusively to VK.