"Turkish diplomacy takes a hand
Predominantly Muslim non-Arab Turkey has been Israel’s main regional ally since the two countries signed a military cooperation accord in 1996.
But Ankara also has close ties with the Palestinians and their cause enjoys widespread support in the country, particularly among Islamist circles.
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan renewed his call for an immediate cease-fire between Israel and Hamas after he met with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak on January 1, adding that Israel should lift its blockade of the Gaza Strip."
More:Turkish diplomacy takes a hand
