Turkey has announced restrictions on exports to Israel, including steel and jet fuel, until a ceasefire is achieved in Gaza, marking Ankara’s first substantial action against Israel in response to six months of conflict.
The Turkish Trade Ministry stated on Tuesday that Turkey condemned Israel’s aggression in Gaza, which began after an attack by Hamas on October 7. Turkey has been advocating for an immediate ceasefire, supporting efforts to hold Israel accountable for genocide allegations, and has sent substantial aid to Gaza.
Despite strong rhetoric, Turkey maintained commercial ties with Israel, which triggered domestic criticism. Following Israel’s refusal to participate in an aid air-drop requested by Turkey, Ankara announced the restrictions, effective immediately.
The measures will affect exports across 54 categories, including iron, marble, steel, cement, aluminum, brick, fertilizer, construction equipment, aviation fuel, and more. The Trade Ministry emphasized that these restrictions would persist until Israel declares a ceasefire in Gaza, allowing unimpeded humanitarian aid flow into the region in accordance with international law.
Turkish-Israeli relations had already strained, with both countries recalling their ambassadors at the outset of the conflict.
This move by Turkey represents a significant shift in its approach to Israel amid growing domestic pressure. President Erdogan has faced criticism over maintaining commercial ties with Israel, evident in recent protests in Istanbul where dozens were detained. In response, the government suspended two police officers involved in the incident, seeking to regain public support after electoral setbacks.
Despite a decline in overall trade due to the conflict, Turkish exports to Israel have increased monthly in 2024, reaching $423.2 million in March, according to data from the Turkish Exporters Assembly. However, total exports for the first quarter were down by 21.6% year-on-year, highlighting the economic impact of the conflict on Turkey’s trade.
