Turkey halts all trade with Israel due to conflict in Gaza

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has sparked protests and tensions around the world, including in the United States. US President Joe Biden has defended the right to peaceful protest but emphasized the importance of maintaining order as demonstrations on college campuses have turned chaotic.

In response to the conflict, Turkey has halted all trade with Israel, escalating tensions between the two countries. This decision comes after Turkey announced plans to join South Africa in accusing Israel of committing genocide in the Palestinian territory. The move to suspend trade has been met with criticism from Israel, with the Israeli foreign minister calling it the behavior of a dictator.

Meanwhile, Hamas has indicated a willingness to consider a temporary ceasefire with Israel in a positive spirit. The group is studying a proposal for a truce and plans to send a delegation to Egypt to continue negotiations. The international community is urging both sides to reach a deal and end the conflict that has devastated the Middle East.

In Saudi Arabia, authorities have increased arrests of citizens for social media posts related to the Israel-Hamas war. The kingdom is signaling a potential willingness to establish diplomatic relations with Israel if it commits to Palestinian statehood. The recent arrests are seen as a response to security concerns following the deadly conflict between Israel and Hamas.

The protests and tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict have also impacted US college campuses, with pro-Palestinian demonstrations spreading to over 100 schools. President Biden has addressed the unrest, emphasizing the right to free speech while condemning acts of vandalism and violence. The clashes have highlighted the deep divisions within the Democratic party over Biden’s handling of the conflict.

As the situation in the Middle East continues to unfold, the international community is pushing for a resolution to the conflict and a lasting ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The repercussions of the war are being felt around the world, with countries like Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the United States navigating complex political and diplomatic challenges in response to the crisis.