Israeli leader's recognition of Assyrian genocide sparks Turkish reaction
The Turkish foreign ministry issued a formal statement following remarks by Israeli prime minister about the Assyrian genocide.
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recognized the genocide carried out by the Ottoman Empire against Assyrians Greeks and Armenians during World War I, in a first for the country.
During a podcast interview with Assyrian-born presenter Patrick Bet-David, Netanyahu said, "I think we did. I think the Knesset passed a resolution to that effect," although no such legislation has been passed by Israel's parliament.
When asked why no Israeli prime minister has ever recognised the mass killings, Netanyahu replied: "I just did. Here you go."
The Turkish Foreign Ministry responded by accusing Netanyahu of trying to “exploit the tragedies in the past for political purposes.”
“Currently on trial for his role in the genocide committed against the Palestinian people, Netanyahu is seeking to cover up the crimes perpetrated by himself and his government,” it said in a statement. “We condemn and reject these remarks which are contrary to the historical and legal facts.”
Turkey does not yet recognize the well-documented Assyrian genocide, but the taboo around the extermination of Assyrians, Greeks and Armenians has eroded in recent years in the country.
