Turkey has reportedly denied Israeli President Isaac Herzog's request to use its airspace en route to Azerbaijan for the COP29 climate conference, which commenced on November 11 in Baku.
Reports indicate that Israel had sought permission for Herzog’s flight to cross Turkish airspace.
However, the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has strained Israel’s relations with neighbouring nations due to its military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, appears to have influenced Ankara’s decision.
President Herzog was compelled to cancel his trip to Azerbaijan on Saturday, citing “security reasons,” after Turkey's refusal.
The denial reflcects the deepening rift between the two nations, which had experienced a temporary thaw after years of strained ties rooted in the Palestinian issue.
Relations between Turkey and Israel, which deteriorated after the 2010 Gaza flotilla raid, had seen some improvement following extensive diplomatic efforts.
However, the recent Israeli offensive in Gaza has reignited tensions. Turkey has suspended all diplomatic and trade relations with Israel in protest against its ongoing military actions.
Several Western and African nations have also criticised Israel’s conduct in Gaza, further isolating the country diplomatically.
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