24 apr 2013
Khudari: Gaza harbor project to be tabled with Erdogan
MP Jamal Al-Khudari has said that the visit to Gaza by Turkish premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan would be an opportunity to discuss with him the project of upgrading the Gaza harbor.
He told Quds Press on Wednesday that Arab and Islamic parties had promised to upgrade the Gaza harbor to enable it work as an important import-export port for the coastal enclave.
Khudari, who is the head of the popular committee against the siege, said that the committee was proposing the operation of Gaza harbor as a commercial port with the participation of Turkey.
He explained that Turkey would supervise the harbor and all import and export traffic would be via a Turkish port, which would mean an end to the sea blockade on the Strip.
Khudari said that the committee hoped that such a proposal would end Israel’s excuses for refusing to let goods in and out of Gaza through its harbor over security fears.
The MP said that the project would go into effect as soon as it was approved, adding that it would be tabled with Erdogan on his visit to Gaza.
Erdogan announced his intention to visit Gaza in May to help break the siege imposed by Israel on the Strip after a visit to the USA in mid May.
The 48,000 square meters harbor is 970 meters in depth and is currently only used by fishermen who are denied fishing in an area exceeding three nautical miles off the coast by the Israeli occupation authorities.
He told Quds Press on Wednesday that Arab and Islamic parties had promised to upgrade the Gaza harbor to enable it work as an important import-export port for the coastal enclave.
Khudari, who is the head of the popular committee against the siege, said that the committee was proposing the operation of Gaza harbor as a commercial port with the participation of Turkey.
He explained that Turkey would supervise the harbor and all import and export traffic would be via a Turkish port, which would mean an end to the sea blockade on the Strip.
Khudari said that the committee hoped that such a proposal would end Israel’s excuses for refusing to let goods in and out of Gaza through its harbor over security fears.
The MP said that the project would go into effect as soon as it was approved, adding that it would be tabled with Erdogan on his visit to Gaza.
Erdogan announced his intention to visit Gaza in May to help break the siege imposed by Israel on the Strip after a visit to the USA in mid May.
The 48,000 square meters harbor is 970 meters in depth and is currently only used by fishermen who are denied fishing in an area exceeding three nautical miles off the coast by the Israeli occupation authorities.
MP Mussa condemns Abbas's attempts to thwart Erdogan's visit to Gaza
MP Yahya Mussa stated that Abbas's position towards the Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Gaza came within his attempt to keep Hamas Hamas and the Gaza strip under siege and to protect his shaky "legitimacy", calling on the Palestinian people to override him and go ahead with their liberation project.
Abbas has asked, during his visit to Turkey which coincided with John Kerry's visit, Erdogan to postpone his visit to Gaza until the implementation of the national reconciliation.
US Secretary of State John Kerry has also asked the same, however Erdogan insisted to visit Gaza on schedule.
Abu Mazen's position confirmed that he is part of the siege imposed on Hamas, MP Mussa said commenting on attempt by Abbas and US to get Erdogan to cancel his visit to Gaza.
Abbas's continued attempts to reinforce siege on Hamas since 2006 deepened the division and prevented achieving unity between Gaza and the West Bank, he continued.
PA chairman Mahmoud Abbas suffers legitimacy crisis in light of the Arab spring revolutions, so he is trying to improve his image even at the expense of the Palestinian people's interest for fear of being a part of the occupation, he pointed out.
Abbas became out of touch with reality and we should override him and not the Fatah movement to achieve the liberation project, the MP said.
He said that Abbas is using his old and last cards. Abbas wants to use the PLO, Arab, regional and international commitments against Hamas to prevent any visit to the Gaza strip, he clarified.
The MP stressed that the Turkish people and government do not accept any blackmail or any foreign intervention in their decisions, where the Turkish Deputy Prime Minister criticized the U.S. State Secretary John Kerry’s recent comments on a planned visit to Gaza by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
"His comments that ‘we do not want the prime minister to go in May’ are not right in a diplomatic sense," MP Mussa quoted the Turkish Deputy as saying, confirming that the Turkish leadership will not submit to these pressures.
The Turkish leadership is committed to supporting the Palestinian people and lifting the siege on the Gaza strip, he stressed.
Abbas has asked, during his visit to Turkey which coincided with John Kerry's visit, Erdogan to postpone his visit to Gaza until the implementation of the national reconciliation.
US Secretary of State John Kerry has also asked the same, however Erdogan insisted to visit Gaza on schedule.
Abu Mazen's position confirmed that he is part of the siege imposed on Hamas, MP Mussa said commenting on attempt by Abbas and US to get Erdogan to cancel his visit to Gaza.
Abbas's continued attempts to reinforce siege on Hamas since 2006 deepened the division and prevented achieving unity between Gaza and the West Bank, he continued.
PA chairman Mahmoud Abbas suffers legitimacy crisis in light of the Arab spring revolutions, so he is trying to improve his image even at the expense of the Palestinian people's interest for fear of being a part of the occupation, he pointed out.
Abbas became out of touch with reality and we should override him and not the Fatah movement to achieve the liberation project, the MP said.
He said that Abbas is using his old and last cards. Abbas wants to use the PLO, Arab, regional and international commitments against Hamas to prevent any visit to the Gaza strip, he clarified.
The MP stressed that the Turkish people and government do not accept any blackmail or any foreign intervention in their decisions, where the Turkish Deputy Prime Minister criticized the U.S. State Secretary John Kerry’s recent comments on a planned visit to Gaza by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
"His comments that ‘we do not want the prime minister to go in May’ are not right in a diplomatic sense," MP Mussa quoted the Turkish Deputy as saying, confirming that the Turkish leadership will not submit to these pressures.
The Turkish leadership is committed to supporting the Palestinian people and lifting the siege on the Gaza strip, he stressed.
23 apr 2013
Turkey PM says will go to Gaza despite US delay call
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday said he would go ahead with a scheduled trip to the Gaza Strip in May despite US calls to delay the visit.
"There is no question of delaying this trip," Erdogan said on Turkish television. Washington had urged Erdogan to postpone visiting the impoverished Palestinian territory, saying it would be a "distraction" from US efforts to revive the moribund Middle East peace process.
Hamas welcomes Erdogan’s insistence on visiting Gaza
Dr. Sami Abu Zuhir, a Hamas spokesman, has welcomed the announcement by Turkish premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan that he would visit Gaza Strip as declared. Abu Zuhri said in a press release on Tuesday that Erdogan’s position is the natural response to interventions that aim at maintaining the blockade on Gaza.
Haneyya: Erdogan’s visit signals the end of American hegemony
Gaza premier Ismail Haneyya said that the scheduled visit of Turkish premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan to Gaza had signaled the end of US hegemony in the region. Haneyya welcomed and appreciated, in a terse statement in Doha on Tuesday, Erdogan’s visit to Gaza.
He said that the visit reflected the extent of Ankara’s support for the Palestine cause and people.
Erdogan had said that his plan to visit Gaza would not change in response to a request by American secretary of state John Kerry to postpone the visit.
"There is no question of delaying this trip," Erdogan said on Turkish television. Washington had urged Erdogan to postpone visiting the impoverished Palestinian territory, saying it would be a "distraction" from US efforts to revive the moribund Middle East peace process.
Hamas welcomes Erdogan’s insistence on visiting Gaza
Dr. Sami Abu Zuhir, a Hamas spokesman, has welcomed the announcement by Turkish premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan that he would visit Gaza Strip as declared. Abu Zuhri said in a press release on Tuesday that Erdogan’s position is the natural response to interventions that aim at maintaining the blockade on Gaza.
Haneyya: Erdogan’s visit signals the end of American hegemony
Gaza premier Ismail Haneyya said that the scheduled visit of Turkish premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan to Gaza had signaled the end of US hegemony in the region. Haneyya welcomed and appreciated, in a terse statement in Doha on Tuesday, Erdogan’s visit to Gaza.
He said that the visit reflected the extent of Ankara’s support for the Palestine cause and people.
Erdogan had said that his plan to visit Gaza would not change in response to a request by American secretary of state John Kerry to postpone the visit.
21 apr 2013
Hamas condemns Kerry over Erdogan visit
The Palestinian resistance movement of Hamas has condemned US Secretary of State John Kerry for calling on the Turkish prime minister to delay a visit to the Gaza Strip.
Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri on Sunday blamed Kerry and acting Palestinian Authority chief Mahmoud Abbas for "collusion in a bid to maintain the (Israeli) blockade on Gaza."
Earlier in the day, the US secretary of state held separate meetings with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Abbas in Istanbul and told reporters he had asked Erdogan to wait for the "right conditions" before going ahead with a scheduled visit to Gaza in May.
"We have expressed to the prime minister that it would be better to delay (the visit to Gaza)," Kerry said.
In November 2012, the eight-day Israeli offensive in Gaza killed about 170 Palestinians, including many women and children, and injured over 1,400 others.
A ceasefire agreement, which took effect on November 21, ended the Israeli onslaught on the Gaza Strip, which has been blockaded since June 2007, a situation that has caused a decline in the standard of living, unprecedented levels of unemployment, and unrelenting poverty.
The apartheid regime of Israel denies about 1.7 million people in Gaza their basic rights, such as freedom of movement, jobs that pay proper wages, and adequate healthcare and education.
Hamas denounces Kerry call to delay Erdogan visit
The Hamas rulers of Gaza on Sunday slammed US Secretary of State John Kerry for urging the Turkish prime minister to delay a visit to the coastal territory.
Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri accused Kerry and president Mahmoud Abbas -- who met in Istanbul earlier in the day -- of "collusion in a bid to maintain the (Israeli) blockade on Gaza."
Kerry met separately in Istanbul with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Abbas, and told reporters he had asked Erdogan to wait for the "right conditions" before going ahead with a planned visit next month to Gaza.
"We have expressed to the prime minister that it would be better to delay (the visit to Gaza)," Kerry told reporters.
Kerry urges Turkey PM to delay Gaza visit
US Secretary of State John Kerry said Sunday he had asked Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan to delay a visit to the Gaza Strip planned for next month, as he pushes for improved Israeli-Turkish ties.
"We have expressed to the prime minister that it would be better to delay," Kerry told reporters in Istanbul, urging Erdogan to wait for the "right conditions".
"We thought the timing is really critical," Kerry added without elaborating.
Erdogan announced last week he planned to visit the impoverished Palestinian territory at the end of next month after a key trip to Washington on May 16.
Erdogan, a staunch advocate of the Palestinian cause, had earlier planned to visit Gaza this month to help the process of lifting an Israeli embargo.
That trip was also reportedly delayed after a warning from Washington, which last month brokered a rapprochement between Turkey and Israel.
Israel in March apologized for the deaths of nine Turks during a 2010 raid on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla which had wrecked ties between the former allies.
But for full normalization, Ankara insists Israel lift its restrictions on Gaza and pay compensation for the flotilla victims, an issue to be discussed in Ankara with a visiting Israeli team on Monday.
Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri on Sunday blamed Kerry and acting Palestinian Authority chief Mahmoud Abbas for "collusion in a bid to maintain the (Israeli) blockade on Gaza."
Earlier in the day, the US secretary of state held separate meetings with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Abbas in Istanbul and told reporters he had asked Erdogan to wait for the "right conditions" before going ahead with a scheduled visit to Gaza in May.
"We have expressed to the prime minister that it would be better to delay (the visit to Gaza)," Kerry said.
In November 2012, the eight-day Israeli offensive in Gaza killed about 170 Palestinians, including many women and children, and injured over 1,400 others.
A ceasefire agreement, which took effect on November 21, ended the Israeli onslaught on the Gaza Strip, which has been blockaded since June 2007, a situation that has caused a decline in the standard of living, unprecedented levels of unemployment, and unrelenting poverty.
The apartheid regime of Israel denies about 1.7 million people in Gaza their basic rights, such as freedom of movement, jobs that pay proper wages, and adequate healthcare and education.
Hamas denounces Kerry call to delay Erdogan visit
The Hamas rulers of Gaza on Sunday slammed US Secretary of State John Kerry for urging the Turkish prime minister to delay a visit to the coastal territory.
Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri accused Kerry and president Mahmoud Abbas -- who met in Istanbul earlier in the day -- of "collusion in a bid to maintain the (Israeli) blockade on Gaza."
Kerry met separately in Istanbul with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Abbas, and told reporters he had asked Erdogan to wait for the "right conditions" before going ahead with a planned visit next month to Gaza.
"We have expressed to the prime minister that it would be better to delay (the visit to Gaza)," Kerry told reporters.
Kerry urges Turkey PM to delay Gaza visit
US Secretary of State John Kerry said Sunday he had asked Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan to delay a visit to the Gaza Strip planned for next month, as he pushes for improved Israeli-Turkish ties.
"We have expressed to the prime minister that it would be better to delay," Kerry told reporters in Istanbul, urging Erdogan to wait for the "right conditions".
"We thought the timing is really critical," Kerry added without elaborating.
Erdogan announced last week he planned to visit the impoverished Palestinian territory at the end of next month after a key trip to Washington on May 16.
Erdogan, a staunch advocate of the Palestinian cause, had earlier planned to visit Gaza this month to help the process of lifting an Israeli embargo.
That trip was also reportedly delayed after a warning from Washington, which last month brokered a rapprochement between Turkey and Israel.
Israel in March apologized for the deaths of nine Turks during a 2010 raid on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla which had wrecked ties between the former allies.
But for full normalization, Ankara insists Israel lift its restrictions on Gaza and pay compensation for the flotilla victims, an issue to be discussed in Ankara with a visiting Israeli team on Monday.
Rizqa: Erdogan is determined to visit Gaza
Political advisor to the Palestinian premier Yousuf Rizqa said that Turkish premier Recep Erdogan is determined to visit the Gaza Strip and no one can dissuade him from his decision.
Rizqa ruled out in a press statement to the Palestinian information center (PIC) on Tuesday that de facto president Mahmoud Abbas would try to dissuade Erdogan from his visit to Gaza, expressing his belief that Abbas would table other issues related the peace process with Israel.
The London-based newspaper Al-Quds Al-Arabi had reported that there were vigorous efforts made by the Palestinian authority to postpone the visit which the Turkish premier intends to make to Gaza as happened when the Tunisian president delayed his visit to Gaza at the behest of the PA.
Furthermore, senior Fatah official Azzam Al-Ahmed told a PA radio station last Monday that Abbas would visit Ankara soon to discuss Erdogan's visit to Gaza.
The Fatah official also expressed his hope that Erdogan would change his decision to visit Gaza.
Rizqa ruled out in a press statement to the Palestinian information center (PIC) on Tuesday that de facto president Mahmoud Abbas would try to dissuade Erdogan from his visit to Gaza, expressing his belief that Abbas would table other issues related the peace process with Israel.
The London-based newspaper Al-Quds Al-Arabi had reported that there were vigorous efforts made by the Palestinian authority to postpone the visit which the Turkish premier intends to make to Gaza as happened when the Tunisian president delayed his visit to Gaza at the behest of the PA.
Furthermore, senior Fatah official Azzam Al-Ahmed told a PA radio station last Monday that Abbas would visit Ankara soon to discuss Erdogan's visit to Gaza.
The Fatah official also expressed his hope that Erdogan would change his decision to visit Gaza.
15 apr 2013
Rizqa: Erdogan's visit to Gaza will have far-reaching political implications
The Palestinian government considered the upcoming visit of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the Gaza Strip next month as "historic, and will have repercussions and far-reaching political implications." Erdogan had formally declared that he will visit Gaza strip at end of next month.
Dr. Youssef Rizqa, Political Adviser to the Palestinian Prime Minister, expressed the Palestinian government and people's satisfaction towards "this historic official visit of this great leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan who always stood by the Palestinian people during the Israeli aggression and siege on Gaza and who still supports the Palestinian people."
He pointed out to the expected preparations to receive Erdogan who is welcomed by all Palestinians in Gaza, occupied West Bank and Jerusalem, in occupied Palestinian territories of 1948, and in Diaspora, adding that his visit will have far-reaching political implications.
Haniyeh's political adviser said that his government would work during Erdogan's visit to lift the political and financial siege on Gaza strip, stressing that getting food into the strip is not considered a removal of the siege.
Dr. Youssef Rizqa, Political Adviser to the Palestinian Prime Minister, expressed the Palestinian government and people's satisfaction towards "this historic official visit of this great leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan who always stood by the Palestinian people during the Israeli aggression and siege on Gaza and who still supports the Palestinian people."
He pointed out to the expected preparations to receive Erdogan who is welcomed by all Palestinians in Gaza, occupied West Bank and Jerusalem, in occupied Palestinian territories of 1948, and in Diaspora, adding that his visit will have far-reaching political implications.
Haniyeh's political adviser said that his government would work during Erdogan's visit to lift the political and financial siege on Gaza strip, stressing that getting food into the strip is not considered a removal of the siege.
14 apr 2013
Turkey's Erdogan to visit Gaza in May
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday announced plans to visit Gaza at the end of May, possibly after a key trip to Washington which brokered a rapprochement between Turkey and Israel last month.
"God willing, we will be in Gaza at the end of May. We will embrace one another there," Erdogan said through a video link with a Turkish aid centre in the coastal territory media reported.
Erdogan, a staunch advocate of the Palestinian cause, earlier said he would visit Gaza in April "to help the process" of lifting an Israeli embargo on Gaza.
That announcement came a day after a breakthrough apology on March 22 from Israel for the deaths of nine Turks during a 2010 raid on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, which had wrecked ties between the former allies.
Aides pointed to scheduling conflicts for the scrapping of the April visit, but Israeli and Turkish media speculated that US Secretary of State John Kerry had warned Ankara over the trip's "potentially adverse effects" on the new thaw in bilateral ties facilitated by Washington.
Erdogan plans to visit Washington on May 16.
For full restoration and re-appointment of its ambassador in Israel, Ankara insists that Israel pay compensation for the raid victims and lift its restrictions on Gaza.
Officials from both sides are set to meet on April 22 in Turkey to discuss the terms of such compensation. Turkish officials had also postponed that meeting, originally planned for April 11, citing scheduling conflicts.
In Gaza City, Hamas deputy prime minister Ziyad al-Zaza told reporters that he hoped Erdogan's visit would present "new possibilities for ending the (Israeli) siege" which he said was costing the economy $250 million per month.
He said that Israel had closed Kerem Shalom, Gaza's only commercial crossing, for 16 days in March, and for five consecutive days in April.
"What enters Gaza through those crossing is between 35 to 50 percent of Gaza's needs, whether it is food, cooking gas or construction materials for international institutions, which is not enough to reconstruct Gaza," he said.
A cautious Erdogan also told reporters on Sunday that "Israel does not appear to be keeping its promise," referring to a pledge by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to continue lifting restrictions on goods if calm prevailed.
"God willing, we will be in Gaza at the end of May. We will embrace one another there," Erdogan said through a video link with a Turkish aid centre in the coastal territory media reported.
Erdogan, a staunch advocate of the Palestinian cause, earlier said he would visit Gaza in April "to help the process" of lifting an Israeli embargo on Gaza.
That announcement came a day after a breakthrough apology on March 22 from Israel for the deaths of nine Turks during a 2010 raid on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, which had wrecked ties between the former allies.
Aides pointed to scheduling conflicts for the scrapping of the April visit, but Israeli and Turkish media speculated that US Secretary of State John Kerry had warned Ankara over the trip's "potentially adverse effects" on the new thaw in bilateral ties facilitated by Washington.
Erdogan plans to visit Washington on May 16.
For full restoration and re-appointment of its ambassador in Israel, Ankara insists that Israel pay compensation for the raid victims and lift its restrictions on Gaza.
Officials from both sides are set to meet on April 22 in Turkey to discuss the terms of such compensation. Turkish officials had also postponed that meeting, originally planned for April 11, citing scheduling conflicts.
In Gaza City, Hamas deputy prime minister Ziyad al-Zaza told reporters that he hoped Erdogan's visit would present "new possibilities for ending the (Israeli) siege" which he said was costing the economy $250 million per month.
He said that Israel had closed Kerem Shalom, Gaza's only commercial crossing, for 16 days in March, and for five consecutive days in April.
"What enters Gaza through those crossing is between 35 to 50 percent of Gaza's needs, whether it is food, cooking gas or construction materials for international institutions, which is not enough to reconstruct Gaza," he said.
A cautious Erdogan also told reporters on Sunday that "Israel does not appear to be keeping its promise," referring to a pledge by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to continue lifting restrictions on goods if calm prevailed.
10 apr 2013
Erdogan postpones Gaza visit at Obama's urging
Following meeting with Kerry, Turkish premier announces he'll visit Gaza after trip to Washington in mid-May, Turkish media reports
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said he will probably visit Gaza after his trip to Washington to meet US President Barack Obama on May 16, Turkish daily Hurriyet reported. Asked about his Gaza trip by a journalist flying with him to Kyrgyzstan, Erdogan said: “It will probably take place after my visit to America."
The statement comes days after the Turkish premier met with US Secretary of State John Kerry in Istanbul. Kerry advised the Turks to consider the timing of the Gaza visit and urged local leaders to fully restore diplomatic ties with Israel. Immediately after Israel apologized to Turkey over the IDF raid on the Mavi Marmara, Erdogan announced his plans to visit Gaza in April. However it appears Kerry's visit affected the his plans.
In Istanbul on the first leg of a 10-day overseas trip, Kerry met with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu with the aim of firming up the rapprochement between Turkey and Israel that President Barack Obama kick-started during a visit to the Jewish state last month.
"We would like to see this relationship that is important to stability in the Middle East and critical to the peace process ... get back on track in its full measure," Kerry told reporters at a joint news conference with Davutoglu. He said that meant promises of "compensation be fulfilled, ambassadors be returned and full relations be embraced."
Kerry said he would return to Turkey in two weeks in order to discuss the situation in Syria.
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said he will probably visit Gaza after his trip to Washington to meet US President Barack Obama on May 16, Turkish daily Hurriyet reported. Asked about his Gaza trip by a journalist flying with him to Kyrgyzstan, Erdogan said: “It will probably take place after my visit to America."
The statement comes days after the Turkish premier met with US Secretary of State John Kerry in Istanbul. Kerry advised the Turks to consider the timing of the Gaza visit and urged local leaders to fully restore diplomatic ties with Israel. Immediately after Israel apologized to Turkey over the IDF raid on the Mavi Marmara, Erdogan announced his plans to visit Gaza in April. However it appears Kerry's visit affected the his plans.
In Istanbul on the first leg of a 10-day overseas trip, Kerry met with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu with the aim of firming up the rapprochement between Turkey and Israel that President Barack Obama kick-started during a visit to the Jewish state last month.
"We would like to see this relationship that is important to stability in the Middle East and critical to the peace process ... get back on track in its full measure," Kerry told reporters at a joint news conference with Davutoglu. He said that meant promises of "compensation be fulfilled, ambassadors be returned and full relations be embraced."
Kerry said he would return to Turkey in two weeks in order to discuss the situation in Syria.
7 apr 2013
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John Kerry urges Turkey to quickly normalize ties with IsraelUS Secretary of State John Kerry (L) and his Turkish counterpart Ahmet Davutoglu give a press conference on April 7, 2013, after their private meeting in Istanbul.
US Secretary of State John Kerry has urged Turkey to restore full diplomatic relations with Israel without delay and exchange ambassadors. Kerry told a joint news conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu in Istanbul on Sunday that Washington wants Ankara-Tel Aviv relations to "get back on track in their full measure'' since they are both vital allies of the US in the region. The top US diplomat also called on Ankara to speed up work on changing government in Syria, adding that Washington and Ankara will continue to work together to find a peaceful and speedy transition in Syria. |
Kerry also met with Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Ankara agreed to restore relations with Tel Aviv on March 22 after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Turkey for the deaths of nine Turkish activists in an Israeli attack on a Gaza-bound international flotilla in 2010. Israel also agreed to pay compensation to the families of those who were killed by Israeli commandos.
The apology was brokered by US President Barack Obama during his visit to Israel and ended a nearly three-year rift between Israel and Turkey. But the two sides have yet to exchange ambassadors and fully restore diplomatic ties.
After Turkey, Kerry is due to visit Israel and the West Bank.
Ankara agreed to restore relations with Tel Aviv on March 22 after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Turkey for the deaths of nine Turkish activists in an Israeli attack on a Gaza-bound international flotilla in 2010. Israel also agreed to pay compensation to the families of those who were killed by Israeli commandos.
The apology was brokered by US President Barack Obama during his visit to Israel and ended a nearly three-year rift between Israel and Turkey. But the two sides have yet to exchange ambassadors and fully restore diplomatic ties.
After Turkey, Kerry is due to visit Israel and the West Bank.
29 mar 2013
Israel, Turkey to discuss flotilla raid compensation
Officials from Turkey and Israel will meet next week for talks on compensation for the families of victims of a deadly 2010 flotilla raid for which Israel apologized last week, the deputy prime minister said Friday.
"A delegation from Israel will travel to Turkey next week to work out the compensation issue," Bulent Arinc said in televised remarks.
Ties between Israel and Turkey plummeted in May 2010 when Israeli commandos staged a botched pre-dawn raid on a six-ship flotilla to the Gaza Strip, killing nine Turkish nationals.
The assault triggered an international outcry and severely damaged relations between regional allies Turkey and Israel, with Ankara demanding a formal apology and compensation for the families of the victims.
Arinc declined to say how much compensation would be paid out by Israel, adding the exact amount would be clarified after talks with the lawyers of victims' families.
Until last week, Israel had refused to apologize for the raid and had instead expressed regret for the deaths.
But last Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Turkey, a breakthrough brokered by US President Barak Obama during his visit to Israel.
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan accepted the apology "in the name of the Turkish people" but said the country's future relationship would depend on Israel.
"A delegation from Israel will travel to Turkey next week to work out the compensation issue," Bulent Arinc said in televised remarks.
Ties between Israel and Turkey plummeted in May 2010 when Israeli commandos staged a botched pre-dawn raid on a six-ship flotilla to the Gaza Strip, killing nine Turkish nationals.
The assault triggered an international outcry and severely damaged relations between regional allies Turkey and Israel, with Ankara demanding a formal apology and compensation for the families of the victims.
Arinc declined to say how much compensation would be paid out by Israel, adding the exact amount would be clarified after talks with the lawyers of victims' families.
Until last week, Israel had refused to apologize for the raid and had instead expressed regret for the deaths.
But last Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Turkey, a breakthrough brokered by US President Barak Obama during his visit to Israel.
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan accepted the apology "in the name of the Turkish people" but said the country's future relationship would depend on Israel.
28 mar 2013
Gaza gov’t: Erdogan's visit to boost reconciliation
The foreign ministry in the Gaza government has welcomed the visit to the coastal enclave by Turkish premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
It said in a statement on Thursday that Erdogan’s “historic visit” would enhance Palestinian reconciliation and support the Palestinian people’s just struggle for the establishment of an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.
The ministry said that it had sent a message of appreciation to Turkey’s president, government, and people over the diplomatic victory that forced Israel to apologize for the attack on the Turkish aid ship Mavi Marmara, offer compensations to families of the victims and lift the siege on Gaza.
It said that the step would contribute in curbing the Israeli war crimes and violation of Palestinian human rights.
Erdogan had announced his intention to visit Gaza next month to meet with the “oppressed Palestinian people” and to make sure that Israel had lifted its blockade on the coastal enclave.
It said in a statement on Thursday that Erdogan’s “historic visit” would enhance Palestinian reconciliation and support the Palestinian people’s just struggle for the establishment of an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.
The ministry said that it had sent a message of appreciation to Turkey’s president, government, and people over the diplomatic victory that forced Israel to apologize for the attack on the Turkish aid ship Mavi Marmara, offer compensations to families of the victims and lift the siege on Gaza.
It said that the step would contribute in curbing the Israeli war crimes and violation of Palestinian human rights.
Erdogan had announced his intention to visit Gaza next month to meet with the “oppressed Palestinian people” and to make sure that Israel had lifted its blockade on the coastal enclave.
27 mar 2013
Bennett: Erdogan making Israel regret apology
Habayit Hayehudi chairman criticizes Israeli-Turkish reconciliation; 'No country is doing Israel a favor by renewing ties with it,' he says, warning that responses to terrorism will be severe.
Following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's apology to Turkey for the 2010 flotilla incident, coalition partner Naftali Bennett warned that Israel's response to future terrorism "would be no less severe."
"Since the apology was made public it appears that Erdogan is doing everything in his power to make Israel regret its apology, while running a personal and tactless campaign at the expense of Israel-Turkey relations," Bennett said.
The Habayit Hayehudi chairman and economy and trade minister posted the comments on his Facebook page, further stating that "To be sure, no country is doing Israel a favor by renewing ties with it."
Following last week's Israeli-Turkish reconciliation, Erdogan clarified on Tuesday that the normalization of relations between the two nations would only occur if Israel implemented its side of the deal with Turkey.
"We are waiting to see what will happen on the ground soon. If they (Israelis) show positive and promising steps – we will do our part as well," he said.
Israel and Turkey are in disagreement over the compensation the Jewish state is to pay to the families of the nine Turkish nationals who were killed during the IDF raid on the Gaza-bound ship.
Israel wants to pay a total of $1 million to the families, while Turkey is demanding that each family receive $1 million.
Justice Minister Tzipi Livni discussed the compensation with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu. The countries agreed to set up a joint committee to deal with the compensation issue.
The committee will be headed by Feridun Sinirlioglu, undersecretary of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a former ambassador to Israel, as well as by Netanyahu's National Security Adviser Yaakov Amidror and Attorney Joseph Ciechanover, the prime minister's special envoy.
Following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's apology to Turkey for the 2010 flotilla incident, coalition partner Naftali Bennett warned that Israel's response to future terrorism "would be no less severe."
"Since the apology was made public it appears that Erdogan is doing everything in his power to make Israel regret its apology, while running a personal and tactless campaign at the expense of Israel-Turkey relations," Bennett said.
The Habayit Hayehudi chairman and economy and trade minister posted the comments on his Facebook page, further stating that "To be sure, no country is doing Israel a favor by renewing ties with it."
Following last week's Israeli-Turkish reconciliation, Erdogan clarified on Tuesday that the normalization of relations between the two nations would only occur if Israel implemented its side of the deal with Turkey.
"We are waiting to see what will happen on the ground soon. If they (Israelis) show positive and promising steps – we will do our part as well," he said.
Israel and Turkey are in disagreement over the compensation the Jewish state is to pay to the families of the nine Turkish nationals who were killed during the IDF raid on the Gaza-bound ship.
Israel wants to pay a total of $1 million to the families, while Turkey is demanding that each family receive $1 million.
Justice Minister Tzipi Livni discussed the compensation with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu. The countries agreed to set up a joint committee to deal with the compensation issue.
The committee will be headed by Feridun Sinirlioglu, undersecretary of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a former ambassador to Israel, as well as by Netanyahu's National Security Adviser Yaakov Amidror and Attorney Joseph Ciechanover, the prime minister's special envoy.
Israel and Turkey in disagreement over compensation of Marmara victims
A Hebrew newspaper revealed that the Israeli authorities and Turkey are in disagreement over the compensation the Jewish state is to pay to the families of the Turkish victims who were killed during the Israeli attack on the Gaza-bound ship Marmara in May 2010.
Yediot Aharonot newspaper said on Wednesday that the wide gaps that separate the two sides were obvious through the negotiations over the amount of compensation and mechanisms of delivering it to the victims' families.
"Israel agreed to pay $100,000 to each family, while the Turks are demanding $1 million for each of the families of those killed during the commando raid on the Mavi Marmara", the paper reported.
The occupation authorities also want that Ankara does not transfer the money directly to the families. According to the Hebrew newspaper "the money is to be transferred to a humanitarian fund headed by the Turkish government, which will distribute it."
The Israeli Justice Minister Tzipi Livni has discussed on Tuesday the compensation issue with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, and the countries agreed to set up a joint committee to deal with the issue.
A statement by the Turkish Prime Minister stressed that Israeli apology "came according to the Turkish conditions", first and foremost formally apologize to the Turkish people, then compensate the families of the victims, lift the ban on the West Bank and Gaza and allow entry of civilian goods.
According to Erdogan, Turkey insisted on these major conditions for the improvement of relations with Israel.
Yediot Aharonot newspaper said on Wednesday that the wide gaps that separate the two sides were obvious through the negotiations over the amount of compensation and mechanisms of delivering it to the victims' families.
"Israel agreed to pay $100,000 to each family, while the Turks are demanding $1 million for each of the families of those killed during the commando raid on the Mavi Marmara", the paper reported.
The occupation authorities also want that Ankara does not transfer the money directly to the families. According to the Hebrew newspaper "the money is to be transferred to a humanitarian fund headed by the Turkish government, which will distribute it."
The Israeli Justice Minister Tzipi Livni has discussed on Tuesday the compensation issue with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, and the countries agreed to set up a joint committee to deal with the issue.
A statement by the Turkish Prime Minister stressed that Israeli apology "came according to the Turkish conditions", first and foremost formally apologize to the Turkish people, then compensate the families of the victims, lift the ban on the West Bank and Gaza and allow entry of civilian goods.
According to Erdogan, Turkey insisted on these major conditions for the improvement of relations with Israel.
MP Khudari proposes operating Gaza harbor under Turkish supervision
Independent MP Jamal Al-Khudari has said that his popular committee against the siege would propose operating Gaza harbor under Turkish supervision.
He told a press conference in Gaza city on Wednesday that the harbor would import goods via Turkish ports away from Israeli control.
He also said that Gaza crossings should not be linked to any political or security developments and should be open permanently.
Khudari also called for prosecuting Israeli leaders for their crimes against the Palestinian leaders.
The IOA is closing Karm Abu Salem and Beit Hanun (Erez) crossings for the seventh day running at security pretexts and for Jewish feasts.
The MP said that the popular committee was closely following up developments of Gaza blockade and was constantly briefing the Turkish government.
Khudari expressed confidence that Turkey would demand a full removal of the blockade; he also hailed Egyptian and Arab efforts in this regard.
He told a press conference in Gaza city on Wednesday that the harbor would import goods via Turkish ports away from Israeli control.
He also said that Gaza crossings should not be linked to any political or security developments and should be open permanently.
Khudari also called for prosecuting Israeli leaders for their crimes against the Palestinian leaders.
The IOA is closing Karm Abu Salem and Beit Hanun (Erez) crossings for the seventh day running at security pretexts and for Jewish feasts.
The MP said that the popular committee was closely following up developments of Gaza blockade and was constantly briefing the Turkish government.
Khudari expressed confidence that Turkey would demand a full removal of the blockade; he also hailed Egyptian and Arab efforts in this regard.
26 mar 2013
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Israel gets Turkey on board to destroy Syria: Dr. Kevin Barrett
A political analyst tells Press TV that the real reason that Israel wants to make friends with Turkey is to get Turkey fully on board with the Israeli plan to destroy Syria. The comments came after Israeli President Shimon Peres said Israel has a thousand reasons to be friends with Turkey, expressing his satisfaction with the resumption of relations with Ankara. Peres stated that somehow both Israel and Turkey "wanted to put an end to this misunderstanding and return to the good relations that have existed between Turkey and ourselves for many good years." Press TV has conducted an interview with Dr. Kevin Barrett, author and political commentator, to further discuss the issue. |
Israel, Turkey Discuss Compensation over Mavi Marmara Raid
Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu and Israeli Justice Minister Tzipi Livni discussed Mavi Marmara issue on the phone on Monday.
They decided that the Foreign Ministry officials of both countries would meet and discuss the compensation which would be paid by Israel for the victims of Mavi Marmara raid.
The officials were planned to gather in coming days.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Turkish people on March 22 during a phone conversation with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan for an Israeli raid on the "Mavi Marmara" aid ship which resulted in the killing of nine Turks in May 2010.
They decided that the Foreign Ministry officials of both countries would meet and discuss the compensation which would be paid by Israel for the victims of Mavi Marmara raid.
The officials were planned to gather in coming days.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Turkish people on March 22 during a phone conversation with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan for an Israeli raid on the "Mavi Marmara" aid ship which resulted in the killing of nine Turks in May 2010.
Turkish delegation inspects the people's needs in Gaza
A Turkish economic delegation visited on Monday the Gaza Strip to inspect the strip's needs that Turkey could provide for the Palestinian people.
During its visit, the Turkish delegation, headed by Mustafa Goktekin the Deputy Head of the Chamber of Commerce in the Turkish city of Kutahya, has met with a number of traders and businessmen in the Chamber of Commerce headquarters in Gaza.
The head of Gazan Chamber of Commerce, Hassan Abu Ryala, welcomed the Turkish delegation stressing the historical and religious relationship between the Palestinian and Turkish people, calling for strengthening the economic relationship between the two people.
He pointed out that the Turkish delegation's solidarity visit aimed to reinforce the economic relations between Turkey and the Gaza strip, noting that it is the first time a Turkish economic delegations visits the Chamber of Commerce in Gaza to discuss the strip's needs.
The Turkish delegation's head expressed his appreciation of the Palestinian people's steadfastness, praising the Palestinian people's victory over and struggle against the Israeli enemy.
We came here to hear your problems and needs, so that we can solve and provide them, said Mustafa Goktekin addressing the Palestinian traders.
The delegation stressed that the visit came under the auspices of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, "who is trying to lift oppression on Muslims around the world."
At the end of the meeting, the Palestinian traders explained the Palestinian people's continued suffering in light of the Israeli siege on the Gaza strip since 6 years.
During its visit, the Turkish delegation, headed by Mustafa Goktekin the Deputy Head of the Chamber of Commerce in the Turkish city of Kutahya, has met with a number of traders and businessmen in the Chamber of Commerce headquarters in Gaza.
The head of Gazan Chamber of Commerce, Hassan Abu Ryala, welcomed the Turkish delegation stressing the historical and religious relationship between the Palestinian and Turkish people, calling for strengthening the economic relationship between the two people.
He pointed out that the Turkish delegation's solidarity visit aimed to reinforce the economic relations between Turkey and the Gaza strip, noting that it is the first time a Turkish economic delegations visits the Chamber of Commerce in Gaza to discuss the strip's needs.
The Turkish delegation's head expressed his appreciation of the Palestinian people's steadfastness, praising the Palestinian people's victory over and struggle against the Israeli enemy.
We came here to hear your problems and needs, so that we can solve and provide them, said Mustafa Goktekin addressing the Palestinian traders.
The delegation stressed that the visit came under the auspices of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, "who is trying to lift oppression on Muslims around the world."
At the end of the meeting, the Palestinian traders explained the Palestinian people's continued suffering in light of the Israeli siege on the Gaza strip since 6 years.