Israel issues warning over Iran threatening to attack Turkey

The warning, issued by the country’s Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, comes after tensions increased between Iran and Israel, following Tehran accusing the Jewish country for several attacks inside its territory and Syria’s, the bombing of strategic military facilities, the Damascus International Airport and more, as well as for the recent death of Revolutionary Guards Colonel Sayyad Khodai on May 22.

The Foreign Minister said that Israeli citizens in Turkey are in immediate danger, as there are "several Iranian attempts at carrying out terror attacks against Israelis on holiday in Istanbul".

"If you are already in Istanbul, return to Israel as soon as possible. If you have planned a flight to Istanbul - cancel. No vacation is worth your life. Do not fly to Turkey at all", Lapid added.

Moreover, the National Security Council in Israel has proceeded to the raising of the travel warning for Turkey to Level 4, the highest level possible.

"Given the continuing nature of the threat and in light of the increased Iranian intentions to attack Israelis in Turkey, especially Istanbul, the National Security Council has raised the travel warning for Istanbul to the highest level, Level 4," commented the NSC representatives.

During his statement, Yari Lapid also appreciated the effort of the Turkish government in order to “protect the lives of Israeli citizens".

The statements come as the connections between the two states have recently been tightened up again, after over a decade of diplomatic difficulties.

The current situation will temporarily affect the Turkish tourism sector, which was on the rise thanks to Israeli holidaymakers, as the country is among the favourite vacation destinations for the Jewish citizens.

 

Source: france24.com