Opinion | Editorials
Erdogan's anger is well directed
Erdogan's 'black stain on humanity' attack is a result of Israeli treachery.
- Gulf News
- Published: 23:38 January 7, 2009
What reason can justify such savagery?" asked Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan as he condemned the Israeli attacks on Gaza, describing the offensive which has claimed more than 650 lives as a bid by Israeli politicians to score points ahead of general elections in February. Erdogan's attack on Israel was powered by his fury at being lied to by the Israeli leadership, who had told him that they would allow humanitarian aid, and would involve Turkey in negotiations.
There is no aid, and there are no negotiations. Erdogan described the war as a "black stain on humanity", and all the more disturbing that since it came from the Jewish nation which "has suffered much in history and should know best the sanctity of human life ... and the importance of the culture of co-existence".
The powerful speech from Turkey's leader marks a dramatic change in dynamics from Israel's leading ally in the region. Turkey and Israel signed a military cooperation deal in 1996, and recently Turkey has been very active in mediating between Israel and Syria. If even Turkey is angered by Israel's brutal attack on Gaza, then Israel has driven itself even further into universal international condemnation, further isolating Washington's persistent and blind support for Israel.
Your comments
The inhuman act of Israel in Palestine has long been condemned by the world community since 1950's and their current hostile attack in Gaza shows how merciless they are.
Janis
Abu Dhabi,Abu Dhabi
Posted: January 08, 2009, 18:20
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