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Will Israel throw Erdogan a lifesaver?

The roles appear to have been reversed, with Turkey more keen on mending fences today than Israel.

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden (L) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu look at each other as they deliver joint statements during their meeting in Jerusalem March 9, 2016. REUTERS/Debbie Hill/Pool      TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY      - RTS9ZRL
US Vice President Joe Biden (L) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deliver joint statements during their meeting in Jerusalem, March 9, 2016. — REUTERS/Debbie Hill/Pool

Recent months have witnessed much talk, suggesting the long-awaited reconciliation between Turkey and Israel is around the corner. Uncharacteristically positive remarks about Israel from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and upbeat statements from Turkish government officials have also increased expectations.

Yet the rapprochement has not happened yet, and it is not clear when it will, despite reports that senior diplomats from the two countries are working to finalize the deal. There also seems to be a slight reversal of roles, with Israel less keen now than Turkey to conclude a deal without reportedly securing assurances on some “red line issues.”

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