While Ankara has not formally announced the suspension of trade, the decision follows remarks made by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan earlier in the week.

Fidan revealed that Israel had prevented the Turkish air force from delivering aid to Gaza, prompting Turkey to vow "step by step" actions in response, to be implemented "without delay."

The Turkish trade ministry, through its social media channels, confirmed the trade suspension, which will remain in effect until Israel agrees to an immediate ceasefire and guarantees the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. A list of 54 products likely to be affected by export restrictions was released, with Fidan confirming that President Erdogan had sanctioned these measures.

President Erdogan has previously condemned Israel, describing it as a "terrorist state" and accusing it of committing "genocide" against Palestinians in Gaza. He has also characterized Hamas as a "liberation group." (ILKHA)