On Friday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has hinted that Ankara is considering about suspension of ties with United Arab Emirates (UAE) over Israel deal.
The statement from Erdogan is seen as a step to oppose the UAE ties with Israel. Ankara may even withdraw its ambassador from UAE in protest. Turkey’s relationship with Israel was souring over the last few years.
In relation to this, Erdogan said
The move against Palestine is not a step that can be stomached. Now, Palestine is either closing or withdrawing its embassy. The same thing is valid for us now,
He further said that he has instructed his foreign minister in this regard and said
I told him we may also take a step in the direction of suspending diplomatic ties with the Abu Dhabi leadership or pulling back our ambassador,
Turkey’s foreign ministry said
History and the conscience of the region`s peoples will not forget and never forgive this hypocritical behaviour,
It is extremely worrying that the UAE should, with a unilateral action, try and do away with the (2002) Arab Peace Plan developed by the Arab League.
On Thursday, US President Donald Trump spoke to Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, UAE Supreme Commander Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan who is also the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. The trio has agreed to normalise the relations between UAE and Israel.
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The joint statement issued by UAE, Israel and the US said
This historic diplomatic breakthrough will advance peace in the Middle East region and is a testament to the bold diplomacy and vision of the three leaders and the courage of the United Arab Emirates and Israel to chart a new path that will unlock the great potential in the region. All three countries face many common challenges and will mutually benefit from today’s historic achievement,
The statement further said
Delegations from Israel and the United Arab Emirates will meet in the coming weeks to sign bilateral agreements regarding investment, tourism, direct flights, security, telecommunications, technology, energy, healthcare, culture, the environment, the establishment of reciprocal embassies, and other areas of mutual benefit,
Opening direct ties between two of the Middle East’s most dynamic societies and advanced economies will transform the region by spurring economic growth, enhancing technological innovation, and forging closer people-to-people relations,
Is to remember that Tel Aviv was the first Muslim nation to recognize Israel with which Turkey has good diplomatic relations. Egypt and Jordan have normal diplomatic ties with Israel. Now, UAE has joined this list.