Peace required for energy projects with Israel, says Turkish minister

ANKARA – Anadolu Agency

Energy Minister Taner Yıldız speaks during the “Mediterranean Energy Perspectives - Turkey Report” introduction meeting in Ankara. AA Photo

Turkey will not pursue any energy projects with Israel until permanent peace is established in the region, Turkish Energy Minister Taner Yıldız has said.

“We try to use energy projects as requirements of peace. We never talk about the economic feasibility of a project without political feasibility. Our national policy is based on this understanding,” Yıldız said, ahead of the “Mediterranean Energy Perspectives - Turkey Report” introduction meeting in Ankara.

He also denied claims that Turkey was used as a transit country for Israeli natural gas. “Without a permanent ceasefire that would satisfy all sides, we cannot think of any energy projects with Israel,” he said.

“People tend to forget the inhumane situation in Gaza. Just because we have not seen it in the news for the past few days doesn’t mean we should forget what has been happening in the region,” Yıldız added.

The energy minister also fielded questions about allegations that Turkey has been exporting jet fuel to Israel.

“Turkey is a country grounded in law. I have said many times that Turkey has not exported jet fuel to Israel. All calculations are out in the open, we do not hide anything. There have not been any exports,” Yıldız said, adding that jets taking on new fuel should not be shown as exports from Turkey.

“These allegations are speculation carried out by ill-minded people. If they spent as much time searching for local energy resources as they do on speculations, they would be more productive citizens for the country,” he said.