Tensions have surged between Israel and Turkey following Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s remarks suggesting potential military intervention in Israel’s Gaza conflict. Erdogan’s comments, hinting at military action similar to past Turkish interventions, led to sharp exchanges between officials from both nations.

In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz compared Erdogan to Saddam Hussein, suggesting Erdogan could face a similar fate as Hussein, who was captured and executed by U.S. forces. This comparison was intended to caution Erdogan about his aggressive stance.

Read more: Erdogan Invites Elon Musk to Establish Tesla Manufacturing Plant in Turkey

Turkey retaliated by equating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with Adolf Hitler, accusing him of genocidal actions against Palestinians. Turkish officials condemned Netanyahu’s actions, drawing parallels to Nazi atrocities.

Erdogan’s strong rhetoric against Israel reflects his past interventions in conflicts such as in Libya and Karabakh. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan defended Erdogan, accusing international Zionist groups of attempting to silence Turkey’s stance. Additionally, Turkey had previously restricted exports to Israel and halted trade, leading Israel to threaten the termination of their free trade agreement.