Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s meeting with Turkish President Erdogan highlighted differing views on the Middle East conflict, particularly regarding Israel and Hamas. Scholz condemned the October 7 Hamas attack while rejecting Erdogan’s genocide accusations against Israel, advocating for a two-state solution. Despite their disagreements, both leaders discussed enhancing arms cooperation, including potential Eurofighter deliveries. They also agreed to resume German-Turkish government consultations and expressed unity on supporting Ukraine amid a complex geopolitical landscape.
Chancellor Scholz and Turkish President Erdogan Highlight Divergent Views on Middle East Conflicts
During Olaf Scholz’s recent visit to Istanbul, stark differences regarding the Middle East conflicts were brought to light in his discussions with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Katharina Willinger, ARD Istanbul, Reports on Scholz and Erdogan’s Meeting
Scholz acknowledged differing opinions, particularly regarding Israel, stating, “The horrific terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7 was a dreadful crime that also caused immense suffering for the people of Gaza.” He underlined the necessity of defending against such attacks.
Tensions escalated further with a missile strike on the Golan Heights, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
Erdogan Calls for Increased Pressure on Israel
Addressing the situation, Erdogan asserted, “We must do everything necessary to apply pressure on Israel and halt its aggressive policies.” He reiterated his view that Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute “genocide.”
In response, Scholz dismissed the genocide claims, asserting that Germany does not view the allegations as valid, while emphasizing that civilian casualties must be grieved universally, independent of their origins.
Erdogan’s stance towards Israel has hardened since Hamas’s attacks, labeling the country as a “terrorist state” while portraying Hamas as a “resistance group.”
The growing controversy over Middle East perspectives may create friction between Scholz and Erdogan.
Call for Political Solutions
Despite their disagreements, Scholz stressed their shared interest in de-escalation, a ceasefire, and political resolutions to avert a larger conflict in the Middle East. He advocated for a credible political process aimed at establishing a two-state solution, stating, “This is a continued objective for us, even amid significant setbacks.”
The two-state proposal envisions a peaceful coexistence between an independent Palestinian state and Israel, though Erdogan emphasized the need for a ceasefire, while Scholz championed Israel’s right to exist.
Discussions on Arms Cooperation
The discussions also covered German arms exports, including potential sales of ‘Eurofighter’ jets. Scholz stood by Germany’s growing arms trade with Turkey, noting Turkey’s status as a NATO member justifies such dealings. He mentioned that more agreements are forthcoming.
Scholz entertained the idea of exporting ‘Eurofighter’ jets, stating that negotiations between the UK and Turkey are underway, indicating promising developments in this area.
Erdogan expressed Turkey’s desire for enhanced collaboration in defense procurement, aiming to overcome past challenges and expand partnerships.
Turkey seeks to acquire approximately 40 ‘Eurofighters,’ necessitating approval from the German government, which had previously blocked exports.
Contentious Arms Exports
The topic of arms exports to Turkey remains controversial due to human rights concerns and Turkey’s military actions abroad. Following Turkey’s military intervention in Syria in 2016, export licenses were significantly curtailed, resulting in exports remaining low. However, recent developments indicate an upturn.
This year, the German government approved arms exports exceeding 100 million euros for the first time since 2011, which includes the shipment of torpedoes and guided missiles.
Reviving German-Turkish Government Talks
Additionally, Scholz and Erdogan aim to revive their countries’ governmental consultations, a framework for meetings involving government leaders and ministers. Scholz referred to the resumption as a “visible sign” of their countries’ relations, although no specific outcomes were detailed.
The discussions were somewhat restrained regarding migration and deportations, with Scholz sidestepping queries about Turkey’s potential assistance in facilitating increased deportations to Syria. The German government indicated that nearly 15,800 Turkish citizens were required to leave the country by September, reflecting a rise in deportations compared to previous months.
Collaborative Stance on Ukraine
Concerning the Ukraine situation, Scholz noted that both leaders expressed solidarity with Ukraine, though additional specifics on cooperation remain unclear.
With Turkey maintaining a positive relationship with Moscow and previously acting as a mediator amid the conflict in Ukraine, Scholz aims to explore avenues for collaboration between Germany and Turkey on this front.