Turkey Becomes 5th Exporter to Israel in 2024: The Contradiction Between Politics and Trade
Data published by the UN Comtrade database and a report by Al Jazeera Network show that Turkey is the fifth largest exporter to Israel, after China ($19 billion), the United States ($9.4 billion), Germany ($5.6 billion) and Italy. Israel’s total imports this year were recorded at $91.5 billion.
Journalist Metin Cihan shared these statistics on social media, emphasizing that despite Turkey’s strong political rhetoric against Israel, it remains one of its key trade partners. Previously, Cihan had also reported, based on international shipping records, that Turkish cargo ships continued to dock at Israeli ports.
Political Reactions and Protests
The Turkish government has repeatedly condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza in recent months and has even taken diplomatic measures against the country. However, the growth in trade between the two nations has sparked a wave of criticism within Turkey.
Opposition parties and civil society organizations have pointed out the contradiction between Ankara’s anti-Israel stance and the continuation of economic relations. In response, Turkish officials have argued that this trade is conducted by the private sector and is unrelated to government policies.
Meanwhile, reports have emerged of police crackdowns on protesters demonstrating against Turkey’s trade ties with Israel. Several demonstrators have been detained during protests.
This report highlights that despite political tensions, economic relations between Turkey and Israel remain intact.
