The Turkish Foreign Ministry has strongly criticized a recent decision by the Israeli government concerning the events of 1915, accusing Tel Aviv of attempting to divert international attention from allegations of war crimes in Gaza.

In a written statement, the ministry said the Israeli government—currently facing proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over accusations related to the situation in Gaza—is trying to “cover up its own crimes” through what it described as a politically motivated decision regarding 1915 events.

The statement argued that Israel’s move disregards both historical and legal realities and reflects what Ankara called an attempt to shift focus away from its ongoing legal and political challenges.

The ministry said the timing and nature of the Israeli government’s announcement expose what it described as “the predicament” of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his administration.

It referenced ongoing international legal scrutiny, including proceedings at the ICJ and investigations by the International Criminal Court (ICC), where arrest warrants have reportedly been issued in connection with alleged crimes committed during Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

According to the Turkish Foreign Ministry, Israel’s statement on 1915 is part of a broader effort to deflect criticism and international pressure regarding its actions in the Palestinian territories.

Ankara reiterated that Türkiye will continue to oppose what it described as Israel’s “expansionist and destabilizing policies” in the Middle East.

The ministry emphasized that Türkiye would maintain its efforts to ensure accountability for actions against civilians, particularly Palestinians in Gaza, and called for the international legal system to be upheld without selective application.

Türkiye also stressed that efforts to address regional crises must be grounded in international law and humanitarian principles, adding that political disputes should not be used to obscure ongoing conflicts or legal proceedings.

The statement comes amid continuing diplomatic tensions between Türkiye and Israel over the war in Gaza, which has significantly strained relations between the two countries.

Ankara has repeatedly accused Israel of violating international law in its military operations, while Israel has rejected such allegations.

The latest exchange highlights the widening political divide as regional and international legal institutions continue to examine the conflict in Gaza and its broader implications for international law and accountability. (ILKHA)