Turkey refutes claims of military collaboration with Israel amid allegations of exporting gunpowder, weapons, and ammunition to the country. The accusations, primarily circulated by online media outlets, suggested that Turkey continues to engage in such trade, prompting swift denials from Ankara.
Reports cited by The Cradle and Karar daily claimed that Turkey exported a significant amount of goods, including military-related items, to Israel in January. However, Turkish authorities vehemently denied these claims, affirming Turkey’s unwavering support for Palestine.
In response to the allegations, Turkey’s national defense ministry clarified that there are no military activities or collaborations with Israel, including training, exercises, or defense industry cooperation. The ministry condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, citing attacks on civilian infrastructure and the suffering of Palestinians.
The Turkish Communications Directorate’s Centre for Countering Disinformation (TCDCCD) also discredited the allegations, stating that the exported items listed were not weapons or ammunition but rather rifle spare parts, accessories, and fishing equipment for individual use.
Despite these clarifications, some media outlets continued to assert that Turkey was exporting military-related goods to Israel. However, fact-checkers pointed out that the exported items were not weapons but rather gel fuel, lighter fluid, and hunting and fishing equipment.
Turkey’s stance against Israeli aggression in Gaza remains steadfast, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan labeling Hamas as a liberation group and recalling Turkey’s ambassador to Israel. While Turkey and Israel have a history of security collaboration, tensions have escalated in recent years due to Erdogan’s vocal support for Palestine and condemnation of Israeli actions.
