In a scathing response to Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan’s recent remarks on the Israel-Hamas conflict, Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, did not mince words. He characterized Erdogan as a “serpent” and accused him of maintaining a stance of anti-Semitism.
Erdan’s rebuke came after Erdogan’s address to a massive pro-Palestinian rally in Istanbul, one of the largest such gatherings since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
During his speech, Erdogan referred to Israel as a “war criminal” and an “occupying force.” In a protracted oration, he reiterated his stance that Hamas should not be categorized as a terrorist organization and criticized Western nations for their unwavering support of Israel.
“We will convey to the entire world that Israel stands as a war criminal. We are actively preparing for this declaration. Israel shall be branded a war criminal,” Erdogan boldly proclaimed.
Erdogan further expressed his frustration with Western leaders for failing to demand a ceasefire from Israel, let alone taking any substantive actions against its actions. His impassioned address, delivered to a crowd in Istanbul, who fervently waved Palestinian flags, resonated with his support for Hamas as “freedom fighters” and his strong condemnation of Israel’s relentless bombardment of the Gaza Strip.
In response to Erdogan’s vehement support for Hamas and criticism of Israel’s actions, Israel has decided to recall its diplomatic personnel from Turkey. The Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs, Eli Cohen, confirmed this decision via Twitter, stating, “Given the gravity of the statements originating from Turkey, I have instructed the return of our diplomatic representatives for the purpose of a thorough reevaluation of Israel-Turkey relations.”
Details regarding this diplomatic recalibration were not disclosed.
This incident underscores the escalating tensions in the Israel-Hamas conflict and the intricate web of international relations at play.
