Turkey vows to support Gaza-bound flotilla, defying Israeli warnings
The Turkish Defense Ministry said its navy vessels and rescue units in the Eastern Mediterranean were monitoring the flotilla and would provide search-and-rescue support if needed.
ANKARA — On Tuesday, Turkey pledged to provide humanitarian support to the international Gaza-bound aid flotilla in the Eastern Mediterranean, following mounting pressure from pro-Palestinian groups to take a stronger stand — despite warnings from Israel that it will intercept the vessels.
The Turkish Defense Ministry said its navy vessels and rescue units in the Eastern Mediterranean were monitoring the flotilla and would provide search-and-rescue support if needed, as Israel warned it would intercept any vessels attempting to breach the blockade on Gaza.
“Turkey is closely monitoring the safe conduct of humanitarian aid activities carried out with civilian vessels currently sailing in the Eastern Mediterranean,” a statement by the ministry said on Tuesday.
“Our ships engaged in various routine training and activities in the region, together with our search-and-rescue capabilities, will contribute to humanitarian aid missions in coordination with the relevant institutions and international parties if needed,” the statement added.
