Israeli Finance Minister urges for Turkey to be excluded from ceasefire negotiations – Israeli Political Affairs

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for Turkey to be removed from the ceasefire talks, citing concerns over the country’s ties to Israel’s “antisemitic enemy Erdogan.” In a letter published on Friday, Smotrich expressed his surprise and dismay at the participation of Turkish representatives in the peace talks, stating that Erdogan should be “canceled” and all ties should be boycotted.

Smotrich pointed to Erdogan’s history of spreading antisemitism and hatred towards Israel, noting Turkey’s legal actions against Israel at the International Court of Justice and the cutting of financial ties. He also criticized the secrecy surrounding Turkey’s involvement in the talks, claiming it was kept hidden from the cabinet.

The finance minister went on to describe the peace talks in Cairo as a “national humiliation” that endangers Israel’s national security and existence. He accused Erdogan of aligning with radical Islam and threatening global peace alongside Iran and its proxies.

Smotrich concluded his letter by urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt any further involvement with Turkey and return to a path of “unrelenting war against its enemies.” He warned of a downward spiral towards defeat and surrender under Netanyahu’s leadership, emphasizing the need for bravery, national pride, and dignity in Israel’s approach to its adversaries.