Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 19
By Orkhan Quluzade – Trend:
The agreement on normalization of relations between Turkey and Israel can de facto enter into force this week, А Haber TV channel reported Sept.19.
Preparations are underway in Turkey’s Foreign Ministry for appointing Turkey’s first ambassador to Israel after restoration of relations between the two countries. At the same time, Israel is expected to appoint its ambassador to Turkey.
Moreover, this week, Ankara expects to receive compensation from Israel for the Freedom Flotilla incident.
Relations between Israel and Turkey deteriorated after the Freedom Flotilla incident in 2010, when a convoy of six ships, including one flying Turkey's flag, tried to approach the Gaza Strip with humanitarian aid and activists on board.
The flotilla was blocked and stormed by Israeli forces, with eight Turkish citizens being killed as a result.
Earlier, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Israel should apologize for the Freedom Flotilla incident, pay compensation to the families of those killed, and end the blockade of the Gaza Strip.
Turkish Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag earlier said that Israel will pay Turkey a compensation of $20 million for the Freedom Flotilla incident.
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