Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, labeling him the “Pharaoh of our time.” The remarks, made to reporters following Friday prayers at the Ali Ibn Abi Talib Mosque in Istanbul, underscore the growing tensions between Turkey and Israel.
Erdogan asserted that Netanyahu would not escape accountability for his actions in the Gaza Strip and throughout Palestine. He emphasized the plight of Gazan children, stating, “We see the suffering of Gaza’s children in tents amidst the winds, rain, and mud. Their prayers will surely haunt Netanyahu.”
The Turkish President also referenced the massive pro-Palestine solidarity march that took place on the Galata Bridge in Istanbul. “We welcomed 2026 with historic scenes yesterday on the Galata Bridge in Istanbul,” Erdogan stated, “This confirms that Palestine is not alone.” Thousands participated in the demonstration, waving Turkish and Palestinian flags and chanting slogans in support of Palestine.
Relations between Ankara and Tel Aviv have been increasingly strained since the start of the Israeli offensive in Gaza in October 2023. Turkey has taken a number of steps to demonstrate its opposition, including joining South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide. Furthermore, Ankara has suspended trade relations with Israel.
The animosity between the two nations has extended beyond political and economic realms, taking on a media dimension and what some observers describe as an indirect confrontation in Syria. Despite these tensions, the United States has suggested that Turkey could play a “constructive role” in efforts to resolve the conflict. However, Israel has strongly rejected any Turkish involvement in a peacekeeping force in Gaza.
The ongoing conflict and the increasingly critical rhetoric signal a deepening rift between Turkey and Israel, with no immediate signs of de-escalation.
