ISTANBUL: Turkey has announced the imposition of trade restrictions on Israel effective immediately, targeting a range of products including cement, steel, and iron construction materials. This decision is a direct response to Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza.
The Turkish trade ministry made the announcement via social media, emphasizing that these measures will remain in place until Israel declares an immediate ceasefire and ensures the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The trade restrictions come shortly after Israel reportedly obstructed Turkey’s attempt to airdrop aid to Gaza. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reiterated Turkey’s stance, vowing retaliatory actions against Israel “step by step” and “without delay.”
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza, condemning Israel as a “terrorist state.” Turkey’s move to impose trade restrictions underscores its firm stance against Israel’s military campaign and its commitment to supporting Gaza during the conflict.
