Turkey’s trade with ‘israel’ exposed: Turkish Ports Mandate Ships to Affirm Lack of ‘israel’ Connections

According to a report by Reuters on Monday, Turkish port authorities have implemented a new requirement for shipping companies. They must now provide informal letters confirming that their vessels are not destined for “Israel” and are not transporting any military or hazardous cargo intended for the nation.

Turkish port authorities have intensified their oversight of maritime activity in light of rising regional tensions, according to sources. The port administration reportedly conveyed verbal directives to port agents, stipulating the requirement of written assurances. However, no formal circular has been issued on the matter as of yet.

A separate source indicates that the guarantee letter aims to verify that a ship’s owners, managers, and operators have no connections with the Israeli occupation, ensuring that no prohibited cargo, like explosives, radioactive substances, or military equipment, is present aboard. Additionally, the letter seeks to prevent the routing of such goods to “Israel” via Turkish ports.

In the midst of escalating regional tensions and an intensified dialogue surrounding trade with Israel, Turkey is taking steps to impose stricter regulations on imports and exports associated with military equipment or hazardous materials. Simultaneously, the conflict in Gaza intensifies as Israel advances its initiative to take control of the region, beginning with a strategic push into Gaza City.

On Wednesday, August 20, the Ministry of Health in Gaza reported that 58 Palestinians had been killed, including two whose bodies were recovered from beneath debris, and 185 others were injured within the last 24 hours due to ongoing Israeli military actions in the Gaza Strip.

Since the onset of the aggression on October 7, 2023, the cumulative number of victims has escalated to 62,122 fatalities and 156,758 injuries. Moreover, figures recorded since March 18, 2025, indicate 10,576 fatalities and 44,717 injuries.

In the last 24 hours, 22 individuals lost their lives and 49 others were injured while attempting to secure humanitarian aid. This development brings the total number of fatalities in similar aid-related incidents to 2,018, with the injured tally surpassing 14,947.

In a recent development, the Israeli military has initiated the next phase of its military campaign in the Gaza Strip, termed “Gideon’s Chariots (B).” The operation marks the starting point of a new stage with maneuvers aimed at encircling Gaza City.

A military spokesperson has announced that the 162nd Division has commenced operations from Jabalia in the northwest as a component of a comprehensive strategy aimed at intensifying the siege on the city. This campaign is anticipated to be prolonged but remains subject to termination based on political instructions. The maneuvers are being executed by conscript units, supported by 133,000 reserve troops.

Israeli media sources, including the public broadcaster Kan 11, have indicated that the military strategy is set to progress through two main phases over a period of four months.

The initial phase of the operation seeks to create “humanitarian zones” equipped with basic infrastructure in the southern region of the Strip. This initiative is intended to facilitate the large-scale evacuation of civilians from Gaza City. Following the establishment of these zones, a ground maneuver is planned to encircle the city while evacuations proceed.