The Security Cabinet on Monday 21 Sivan is expected to approve the agreement accepted by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu to resume diplomatic ties with Turkey. The Security Cabinet’s approval is expected, and this will clear the final hurdle prior to both countries signing on the document.

Israel has basically admitted it was wrong as Jerusalem is going to pay NIS 21 million in compensation for the nine Turkish nationals onboard the Marvi Marmara who were killed. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan remained firm and ultimately, received an Israeli admission of guilt in the form of payment to the victims.

While relations between the countries is a mutually beneficial package, there is growing criticism against Mr. Netanyahu and his cabinet for not insisting the return of the bodies of IDF Lt. Hadar Goldin and Sgt. Shaul Oren be a part of the deal. Erdogan has given Israel a letter committing to do his utmost on the humanitarian front to bring the bodies of the soldiers’ home. The families on Sunday set up a protest tent outside the Prime Minister’s Residence after learning the deal does not compel Hamas to return the bodies. Also taking part in the protest tent are relatives of Avraham Mengistu, the mentally challenged Israeli man who entered Gaza on his own and is believed to be held by Hamas.

It is unlikely Turkey will succeed in this mission for Hamas is using the bodies as a bargaining chip and not to reward Turkey for signing an agreement to renew diplomatic relations with Israel.

In short, many feel that Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu could have agreed to apologize and make compensatory payments six years ago instead of permitting the further deterioration of relations with Turkey.

Turkey did however capitulate on one major issue, its demand that Israel end the marine blockade on Gaza.

Details of the agreement are scheduled to be released on Monday afternoon. Prime Minister Netanyahu, who is on an official visit to Rome, will hold a press conference and announced the details to the media.

Foreign Minister Director-General Dr. Dore Gold and Turkish Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Feridun Sinirlioglu are set to sign the agreement in their respective capitals on Tuesday in separate events.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)