Israel Matzav

Report: Israel to pay $20 million to settle Mavi Marmara claims

Turkey's Daily Hurriyet is reporting that Israel has agreed to pay $20 million in 'compensation' to the families of the terrorists who were killed on the Mavi Marmara in May 2010. Are we nuts?

Israel apologized to Turkey on March 22, 2013, but the normalization process could not be completed because of differences on the amount of compensation and its legal definition. The two countries’ diplomats met at least four times last year, and the chances of an agreement appear to be rising.

“The amount of compensation for those who were killed and wounded in the Mavi Marmara operation, plus the damages inflicted on the vessel, will be around a few million dollars,” sources said, without giving further details.

Earlier press reports suggested the difference between Turkey and Israel on the amount of money was quite high, but the parties appear to have sought a way to find a middle point in a bid to make a deal possible.

Another problematic issue with regard to the compensation was its legal definition, as Turkey had insisted that Israel accept liability on the attack and the killing of Turkish citizens. Sources underlined Israel could accept responsibility, albeit on the condition that it be given a strong assurance that future criminal cases will not be opened against the Israeli commanders and soldiers who were involved in the attack.

In addition, the deal to be reached between the two countries will automatically abort ongoing criminal cases against Israeli soldiers. The Israeli side wants the agreement to be signed to end the legal dispute between the two parties, as well as provide an opportunity for political reconciliation.

Both countries’ diplomatic sources stressed that although negotiations with regard to the deal are nearing completion, they have been looking for the approval of their respective prime ministers to move forward. In the event that the two countries sign the deal, they will also have to exchange ambassadors immediately so the normalization of ties can become more visible.

Diplomatic sources noted that Turkey was on the eve of a very critical election process and that Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan might use the agreement with Israel as another foreign policy victory, in the way he did last year when Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu officially apologized to him following a direct intervention by U.S. President Barack Obama.

I would bet on Sultan Erdogan killing this deal with some last-minute demand, but even if he doesn't, do you trust the Turks not to turn around (or to let their citizens turn around) and go to the International Criminal Court anyway? I don't. 

Labels: International Criminal Court, Mavi Marmara, outrageous apologies, Recep Tayyip Erdogan

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 2:32 PM