After the Mavi Marmara, relations between Turkey and Israel had reached the breaking point. While the normalization moves between Ankara and Tel Aviv, which started a short time ago, continued, a Turkish warship anchored in Israel’s Haifa port was on the country’s agenda.
IN THE REGION FOR NATO EXERCISE
The Turkish warship F-247 TCG Kemalreis, together with the USS Forrest Sherman of the US Navy, anchored in the port of Haifa and became “the first Turkish warship to dock at Israeli ports in 12 years”. While it was stated that TCG Kemalreis was in the region as part of a NATO exercise, the Israeli media gave wide coverage to this situation.
WILL STAY IN THE PORT FOR A FEW DAYS
Speaking to Israel-based i24 TV, Israeli officials stated that “Israel is cooperating with NATO and supporting NATO,” and that the Turkish warship will stay in the port for a few days. Announcing that TCG Kemalreis will refuel and show its presence, Israeli officials shared other details about this visit with the public.
“TURKISH SEASONERS DON’T HAVE PASSPORT, THEY WILL NOT SHIP”
While Israeli media pointed out that TCG Kemalreis is the first ship to dock in Israeli ports since 2010, new information has come from Israeli authorities. Speaking to the Israeli news site Walla, some officials said, “Turkish sailors do not have passports, so they will not leave the ship. Also, they have no desire to go ashore.” This official also pointed out that US seafarers have visa exemption and said that they can enter Israel without the need for a passport.
“NO MEETING OR EXERCISE PLAN”
On the other hand, Israeli media pointed out that Turkey and Israel decided to restart diplomatic relations last month and said, “The Israeli administration does not currently plan to restart military cooperation with Ankara. Therefore, there is no visit, meeting or exercise plan between the Kemalreis crew and the Israeli navy. ‘ he commented. The ship is expected to leave the area on Tuesday.