Turkey itself provoked Israel into tougher actions against their ships, Head of the ARFD Dashnaktsutyun faction Vahan Hovhannisyan told journalists on June 1.

According to him, carrying humanitarian supplies to a country implies meeting clear international regulations. Israel reminded Turkey of that in advance.

“However, after the Israel’s stern warnings, Turkey decided to execute its plan, which certainly brought an adequate response on the part of Tel Aviv. This can be called nothing but provocative actions by Turkey as Ankara clearly realized that Israel will not allow the six ships-with an obscure cargo and doubtful crew, who were probably members of armed groups-to enter its national waters,” Hovhannisyan said. On the other hand, he believes the Israeli military operation against Palestine and Gaza Strip was unacceptable.

“However, it is up to international agencies to decide on the legality of Israel’s actions.  One thing is certain: Turkey itself provoked Israel into such harsh actions. Tel Aviv had warned them, had it not?” said Hovhannisyan.