Turkey has decided to impose restrictions on Israeli vessels in its ports and airspace. On Friday (29 August), Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced the move, according to British news agency Reuters.
Speaking at a parliamentary session, Fidan said: “We have already stopped trade with Israel. From now on, Israeli ships will not be allowed access to our ports, and our vessels will not dock at Israeli ports.”
Without providing further details, he added: “Through our ports and airspace, we will not allow the transport of weapons and ammunition to Israel.”
A Turkish diplomat later clarified that the minister was referring only to official flights bound for Israel and those carrying weapons, stressing that regular commercial flights would not be affected.
Fidan’s remarks are seen as part of a broader set of measures Turkey has already taken—or is preparing to enforce—against Israel over its ongoing war in Gaza.
Since the start of Israel’s offensive in Gaza, Ankara has accused Tel Aviv of committing genocide. In response, Turkey has suspended bilateral trade, withdrawn political support, and urged the international community to take legal action against Israel.
Last week, Turkish officials told Reuters that authorities had begun informally requiring shipping agents to submit cargo documentation proving vessels were not carrying military or hazardous goods, and that their destination was not Israel. Another official confirmed that Turkish-flagged ships have been barred from docking at Israeli ports.
Fidan also announced that presidential approval has been granted for humanitarian airdrops into Gaza. “Our aircraft are ready,” he said. “Once we receive the green light from Jordan, we will take the next step.”
The Israeli government has not yet issued an immediate response to Fidan’s statements.
