"Renewed unrest in Egypt makes Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s promised (and oft postponed) visit to Gaza an unlikely reality. Regardless of when he makes the journey, however, most Israelis will casually observe the festivities with the tired dismissal that comes from the overexposure of such populist grandstanding. Contrary to popular thinking, however, Erdoğan’s long-anticipated road show in Gaza will actually serve Israel’s interests," an article by Gabriel Mitchell published by Hurriyet Daily News reads.
"Prior to reconciliation talks, the Turkish government made three demands of Israel: an official apology for the Mavi Marmara incident, financial compensation to the families of the victims, and Israel’s lifting of its blockade of the Gaza Strip. With an apology already in the bag and compensation talks entering their fifth consecutive month, Erdoğan’s trip would render the Gaza blockade a non-factor in further negotiations."
"This shift in policy not only demonstrates that the blockade’s primary purpose is to prevent terrorist organizations from acquiring weapons and not create an “open-air prison” as has been previously argued, but also shows Israel’s flexibility in the face of increased pressure. As Gaza’s highest-profile guest to date, Erdoğan would be unwittingly approving Israel’s policy adjustments (though he would never admit it), leaving compensation to the Mavi Marmara families as the remaining issue between the two countries," the author writes.
"What will Erdoğan’s visit accomplish? It is unlikely to have any regional impact, though it would be another instance in which Turkey has engaged in traditionally Egyptian affairs by courting the Palestinians."
