by Peter Lyukimson, Israel. Exclusively for VK
The advice by Israeli Terrorism Control Headquarters to avoid visits to Turkey has caused new tensions between the two states.
Ankara expressed discontent with the statement, saying that it has nothing to do with safety of Israeli citizens and is instead a form of vengeance on Turkey for the latest political moves against Israel. The official statements of the Turkish Foreign Ministry sent to Israeli diplomats says that the recommendation is to convince Israelis all over the world that poor diplomatic ties between the states mean poor security for Jews. Meanwhile, despite all controversies, Turkey continues fighting terrorism and protecting Jews or any other Jewish centers.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry denied the accusations, stating that the recommendations were based on operative information about saboteurs of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps and the Hisbollah terrorist organization of Lebanon planning attacks on leaders of Jewish communities in Turkey, as well as businessmen and tourists. Facts say that the urge of the Israeli Terrorism Control Headquarters had no effect. On the contrary, Turkish Airlines had an increase of Israeli tourists, because the population of southern parts of Israel, suffering from new missile attacks from the Gaza Sector, expects more safety in Turkey. Besides, Israelis like shopping in Turkey, since the local prices are much lower.
At the same time, Arkia (an Israeli air company) said that Israeli state services are turning a blind eye to Turks and neglect interests of national companies. Arkia was provoked by the fact that Turkey did not permit it to inspect its passengers and have armed security officers on board. Such requirements are obligatory for Arkia’s flights. In other words, Turkey hinders the Israeli company in making Tel Aviv – Istanbul flights.
