Erdogan Draws Controversial Parallel Between Netanyahu and Hitler
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has sparked controversy by comparing Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Adolf Hitler. This remark exacerbates an already tense relationship between Turkey and Israel amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza.
Casey Parker
- 2023-12-27
- Updated 11:03 AM ET
(NewsNibs) - Erdogan's strong criticism came following recent attacks on Gaza, which he likened to Nazi brutality against Jews during World War II. As the leader of a NATO member country that supports a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Erdogan labeled Israel a "terrorist state" and called for its leaders to be tried for what he considers war crimes in international courts. He further expressed Turkey's solidarity with academics and scientists who face persecution for their opinions on the Gaza situation, and condemned Western nations that back Israel, implying their complicity in the alleged war crimes.
Erdogan's Accusations Toward Netanyahu
In an escalation of his condemnation, Erdogan alleged that Netanyahu's actions reminisce those of Hitler, insinuating that the Israeli leader's regime makes people miss Hitler. He pointed out Netanyahu's significant wealth and the support he receives from Western powers, including the United States, which he asserts backs Netanyahu in every conceivable manner. Erdogan also accused Israel of having killed more than 20,000 residents of Gaza.
Netanyahu's Response and Bilateral Trade
In retaliation, Netanyahu accused Erdogan of committing genocide against the Kurdish people and for his government's imprisonment of journalists - arguing that Erdogan is consequently not qualified to lecture on moral issues. Despite Erdogan's critiques and calls from Turkish opposition parties and Iran to sever ties, Turkey maintains trade relations with Israel. However, these relations have sharply declined following a lethal attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7 that led to 1,200 deaths and a subsequent retaliatory war against Hamas by Israel. Turkey does not consider Hamas as a terrorist organization, unlike their Western allies and certain Arab nations.
The Middle Eastern geopolitical dynamics remain fraught with complexities as Turkey's stance on Israel contrasts that of its NATO partners and certain Arab states. The war of words between Erdogan and Netanyahu underscores the deep divisions and the impact these have on international diplomacy, while the human cost of the conflict in Gaza continues to mount.
