Israel reacts to the recall of Turkey’s ambassador from the country

Turkey’s decision to recall its ambassador from Israel for consultations at a time of heightened tensions in the Gaza Strip confirms that relations between the two countries remain complex and unpredictable. Israel saw the move as Ankara moving closer to Hamas, reflecting broader trends in regional politics and shifting alliances.

Relations between Turkey and Israel have been tense in recent years, largely due to differences in views on the Palestinian issue and the role of Hamas, which Turkey views as the legitimate representation of the Palestinians while Israel and many other countries consider it a terrorist organization.

The withdrawal of Israeli diplomats from Turkey to reassess bilateral relations was a response to President Erdogan’s comments and may indicate Israel’s desire to review or strengthen its diplomatic strategy towards Turkey.

These movements of diplomatic figures in the Middle East reflect ongoing volatility in the region, where historical, religious and political differences often influence international and bilateral relations.