Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich Urges Netanyahu to Remove Turkey from Ceasefire Talks

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to remove Turkey 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 at the inclusion of Turkish representatives in the peace talks, stating that Erdogan should be “canceled” and all ties should be boycotted.

Smotrich highlighted Erdogan’s role in spreading antisemitism and hatred towards Israel, noting Turkey’s legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and the cutting of financial ties. He also criticized the secrecy surrounding Turkey’s participation in the talks, stating that it was kept hidden from the cabinet.

The finance minister warned that the peace talks in Cairo were a “national humiliation” that endangers Israel’s national security and existence. He accused Erdogan of aligning with radical Islam and threatening peace worldwide, claiming that Turkey’s participation in the talks only serves to provide Erdogan with redemption and international legitimacy at Israel’s expense.

Smotrich concluded his letter by urging Netanyahu to halt the peace talks before it’s too late and return Israel to a path of unrelenting war against its enemies. The minister’s strong words reflect growing concerns over Turkey’s involvement in the ceasefire talks and its potential impact on Israel’s security.