BY FEHMI KORU
YENI SAFAK- Using the word ‘historic’ for Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul’s meetings with Israeli and Palestinian officials is a bit of a cliché. However, it would be historic for the world if these meetings yield positive results. If the outcome is negative, they will join the region’s history of missed opportunities. Generally, Turkey isn’t interested in others’ problems, so it faces problems only when they affect us. Gul’s efforts to deal with the Arab-Israeli conflict are a very important change for Turkey. In addition, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to visit the same region to promote Turkey’s mission. Turkish-Israeli relations date back to the foundation of the Israeli state, and the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) hasn’t soured these ties. However, since the AKP came to the power, Turkey has gradually become more interested in Palestine and its people. It’s not unusual for a country which has good relations with both sides of a conflict and the confidence of both to work to solve the problem.
Probably Israel is expecting Turkey to convince the Palestinians and Arabs to abandon the belief that a solution can be reached through violence. As the two sides’ expectations for a just and lasting solution are different, it’s difficult for Turkey, as an ‘honest mediator,’ to fulfill these expectations in a way that alters the course of history. The US has intervened in the conflict many times, countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia drew up plans, the UN and the EU had certain initiatives, etc. But none of these worked out, and the problem grew worse. This is yet another attempt, and if it doesn’t succeed this wouldn’t be odd. However, Turkey’s role of a honest mediator marks a real chance for this region. Israel can use its power on an unarmed nation and Palestine can prevent Israel from sleeping soundly, but a mediator is necessary for a process unmarred by violence. However, Israel shouldn’t misunderstand Turkey’s intentions. In addition, not only would misguided actions hinder Turkey’s historic mission, but also the disappointment of either party might bring negative consequences which cannot be redressed.