Turkey and Israel have had a tumultuous relationship over the years, with tensions rising and falling depending on various factors. While Turkey was the first Muslim country to recognize Israel’s independence in 1949, recent events have strained their relationship.
One of the major issues has been Turkey’s decision to cease trade with Israel, which has caused significant economic damage to both countries. Additionally, a meeting between Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and the leader of pro-Iranian militias in Iraq, Falah al-Fiad, has raised concerns about the nature of their relationship. This meeting has sparked questions about whether Turkey is actively supporting Iran in its efforts against Israel.
Despite these tensions, there have been some positive developments in the relationship between Turkey and Israel. For example, Fidan believes that pro-Iranian militias are prepared to confront Kurdish separatists in northern Iraq. This could potentially lead to a reduction in violence in the region and pave the way for peace negotiations between Turkey and Iran.
However, Fidan also acknowledges that ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran are a major concern for him. He believes that these tensions could escalate into a larger conflict if left unchecked. In this context, he suggests a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders as a potential long-term solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This proposal aligns with the views of many Palestinians and Hamas, indicating a willingness to pursue peace.
Overall, Fidan’s statements reflect the complexity of Middle Eastern relations and the challenges faced in achieving lasting peace between Turkey and Israel. Despite recent setbacks, there remains hope that both countries can find common ground and work towards resolving their differences through peaceful means.
