Israel apologizes to Turkey over insult to its ambassador, hoping to defuse latest crisis
By Mark Lavie, APWednesday, January 13, 2010
Israel apologizes to Turkey over insult
JERUSALEM — Israel on Wednesday apologized to Turkey over an insult to its ambassador in an attempt to defuse the latest crisis between the two nations.
On Monday, Israel’s deputy foreign minister summoned the Turkish ambassador to complain about a TV show. The ambassador was forced to sit on a low sofa without a handshake, and the Israeli official explained to local TV stations that the humiliation was intentional.
Turkey threatened to recall the ambassador. Late Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said a letter of apology has been written, and the premier “hopes this will end the affair.”
According to quotes obtained by The Associated Press, the letter said in part, “The disputes between Israel and Turkey will be solved in a respectful and mutual manner between the two governments. There was no intention to humiliate the ambassador personally. I apologize for the way Israel’s protest was presented.”
Israel has been troubled by harsh statements from Turkey’s president, criticizing the civilian casualties from Israel’s Gaza war a year ago.
In previous years, the two states built up a strong relationship, including military cooperation and tourism, making Turkey Israel’s closest ally in the Muslim world.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel has apologized to Turkey over an insult to its ambassador in an attempt to defuse the latest crisis between the two nations.
On Monday, Israel’s deputy foreign minister summoned the Turkish ambassador to complain about a TV show. The ambassador was forced to sit on a low sofa without a handshake, and the Israeli official explained to local TV stations that the humiliation was intentional.
Turkey threatened to recall the ambassador. Late Wednesday, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said a letter of apology has been written, and premier “hopes this will end the affair.”
Israel has been troubled by harsh statements from Turkey’s president focusing on civilian casualties from Israel’s Gaza war a year ago.
