Turkey Denies Vessel Role in Flotilla Attack, Plans Solidarity Voyages
Turkish officials have denied claims that Turkish commercial vessels were near the Global Sumud Flotilla during the Israeli attack, dismissing them as a 'perception management operation'. Despite the incident, the flotilla successfully raised global awareness about Gaza's inhumane blockade.
Hasan Turan, an AK Party deputy and head of the Turkish-Palestinian Interparliamentary Friendship Group, has strongly condemned Israel's attack. He will personally join a solidarity maritime voyage from Giresun, describing Israel as a 'terrorist state'. Turan's voyage is part of nationwide demonstrations at sea, with vessels setting sail from various Turkish coasts on Sunday, Oct. 5. Boats from all Black Sea provinces will participate, carrying Turkish and Palestinian flags.
Since May 2, 2024, Türkiye has halted all trade with Israel, including exports, imports, and transit transactions. Israeli-flagged and Israeli-owned or affiliated vessels are banned from entering Turkish ports, with strict checks for foreign-flagged vessels carrying military cargo bound for Israel. Türkiye is closely monitoring the situation of its citizens aboard the flotilla and taking necessary steps for their release.
Türkiye is preparing a major maritime show of solidarity with Palestine following the Israeli assault on the Global Sumud Flotilla. Despite the attack, the flotilla achieved its purpose, drawing global attention to Gaza's inhumane blockade.
