Turkey Deepens Influence in Jerusalem Amid Erdogan's Anti-Israel Rhetoric
Turkey is intensifying its activities in Jerusalem through various official channels, including its consulate, despite sharp rhetoric from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan against Israel. Ankara has also expanded ties with Palestinian factions and provided training to thousands of Palestinian police officers and officers in recent years.
Erdogan frequently emphasizes Turkey's historical and religious connection to Jerusalem, stating in the past that "we were forced to leave Jerusalem, but it is ours." This sentiment reflects the city's prominent place in Turkish discourse, drawing on the Ottoman Empire's 400-year rule.
The Turkish Consulate in Jerusalem issued a statement of mourning and condemned Israel's actions following the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, calling it a "heinous crime." The former Turkish Consul General in Jerusalem, Ahmet Riza Demir, was later seen with senior Hamas officials and Palestinian security officers, participating in the inauguration of a gym built with assistance from TIKA, Turkey's official aid agency.
Turkey's involvement extends to security training. An agreement signed in 2022 has led to approximately 2,000 Palestinian police officers being trained in Turkey, with an additional 143 officers completing studies at a police academy there. The Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Center in Jerusalem, an official Turkish government institution, promotes Turkish language and culture through courses and activities. The center has hosted Jerusalem's Mufti, Akram Sabri, who faces charges for inciting terrorism.
A report by the Jerusalem Center for Policy Research highlights Turkey's growing presence. Ran Ishai, head of research at the center, suggests Israel should strengthen its civilian presence in East Jerusalem to counter foreign influence. The overall picture shows Ankara deepening its ties with Palestinian groups and establishing a foothold in Jerusalem through official institutions, aid, cultural programs, and training, raising questions for Israel about the extent of Turkey's influence in the city.
