Israel and Turkey: Normalization of Diplomatic Relations After 6 Years

Israel and Turkey are ready to initiate the normalization of diplomatic relations 6 years after the Israeli attack on a small flotilla off the coast of Gaza, in which 8 Turkish and 1 American citizen of Turkish origin lost their lives, CNN reports, according to NAP.

Before the incident, Turkey had long been Israel's closest ally in the region, but the attack marked the end of diplomatic relations, with both countries recalling their ambassadors immediately after the attack.

Details of the outcome of the negotiations will be known on Monday, and according to Israeli officials, they will include a $20 million compensation fund for Turkish families, as well as a plan for the return of ambassadors to Ankara and Tel Aviv.

In addition, Turkey has agreed to withdraw charges against Israeli military personnel and the state of Israel based on the Israeli attack, official Israeli sources announce.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a formal apology for the attack in March 2013, acknowledging "operational mistakes".

Leaders of Israel and Turkey finalized the agreement in Rome, preceded by a series of meetings last year. Both sides are cautiously optimistic about reaching an agreement, but after years of strained relations between the two countries, obstacles still remain.

Turkey demands that Israel lift the blockade of Gaza before normalizing relations, while Israel asks Turkey to prevent Hamas leaders from carrying out operations in the country.

A detailed overview of the agreement will be published during the day.