What’s happening:

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has intensified his criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by drawing a contentious analogy, likening him to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. Furthermore, Erdogan accused Israel of systematically attacking civilian infrastructure and killing individuals, including journalists, in Gaza.

Why it matters:

Erdogan’s comments not only stir diplomatic tensions but also provoke controversy by invoking historical atrocities to criticize current military actions. Moreover, amidst these sharp verbal attacks, Turkey’s willingness to provide asylum for persecuted academics reveals a complex political landscape and underscores the fluctuating relationship between Turkey and Israel.

The big picture:

These incendiary remarks came from Erdogan as he claimed Israel “attacks hospitals, schools, places of worship” in Gaza, suggesting a deliberate targeting of non-combatants and civilian structures. He also criticized Germany’s silence on the matter, correlating it with a historical guilt over the Holocaust.

Israel Reacts:

In retort to Erdogan’s comments, Prime Minister Netanyahu highlighted the moral stance of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and condemned Hamas for its deplorable acts backed, according to him, by Erdogan. Minister Benny Gantz also denounced Erdogan’s remarks as dishonoring the Holocaust and defended the military actions against Hamas as existential and morally imperative.

Erdogan’s Previous Assertions:

Prior to these statements, Erdogan had accused Israel of “committing genocide in Gaza” and implored international intervention. He described Hamas as a legitimately elected party, despite the group’s forceful takeover of Gaza in 2007, following violent confrontations with Fatah.

Diplomatic Fluctuations:

Following alleged Israeli military excesses in Gaza, Turkey had recalled its ambassador for consultation. Yet, Erdogan’s recent diatribes occurred only months after a seemingly productive meeting with Netanyahu at the United Nations General Assembly, where the two discussed strengthening bilateral ties.

Between the lines:

These recent antagonistic statements from Erdogan may undermine previous efforts aimed at bilateral rapprochement and regional stability. They reflect the ongoing volatile nature of Turkey-Israel relations amidst broader Middle Eastern geopolitical dynamics.

This story was first published on ynetnews.com.