Turkey's Hidden Agendas: Middle East Tensions and Economic Deflection

Turkey's parliament held a secret meeting to discuss Middle East conflicts amid President Erdogan's claim about Israel's territorial intentions. The session focused on potential regional conflict escalation. Opposition dismisses Erdogan's remarks as distractions from Turkey's internal economic issues, while public sentiment supports a strong stance against Israel.

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Turkey's lawmakers engaged in a confidential session on Tuesday to address the conflict's expansion, prompted by President Erdogan's controversial assertion that Israel covets Turkish territory. Despite lacking substantiation, Erdogan's statement aims to divert attention from Turkey's economic struggles, say critics.

The closed-door parliamentary meeting, requested by opposition, featured presentations from foreign and defense ministers about potential spillover effects from conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Turkey, a vocal critic of Israel's actions, has halted trade and pursues legal action against Israel, despite Israeli assertions of self-defense against threats from groups like Hamas.

Reactions varied, with some dismissing Erdogan's claims as improbable and politically motivated. CHP leader Ozgur Ozel criticized the narrative of an Israeli threat, urging focus on domestic economic challenges. Yet, public opinion largely supports Erdogan's hard stance on Israel, despite questions about continuing trade practices.

(With inputs from agencies.)