Fatah strongman Barghouti praises Turkey’s stance in apology diplomacy

CAIRO – Anatolia News Agency

A Palestinian waves a Palestinian flag in front of fishermen on their boats during a protest at the seaport of Gaza City in Gaza city on April 7, 2013. AFP PHOTO MAHMUD HAMS

Israel’s apology to Turkey is an indication of Ankara’s right and consistent attitude and evidence that the Mavi Marmara vessel came under attack, jailed Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti told Anatolia news agency via a special mediator.

Fatah strongman Barghouti said Turkey should strengthen its ties with Arab countries instead of Israel for its security, economic and political interests. The jailed leader also hailed Turkey’s support of the Palestinians. “Turkey is working to stand at equal distances to all parties. It supports not only Palestinians but also Palestinian leaders. It helps to overcome the political division in Palestine, especially to ‘liberate’ Jerusalem from Israel,” Barghouti told Anatolia news agency. Barghouti is serving five life prison terms for murder.