Israel's response to the earthquake that devastated Turkey
In the early hours of February 6, 2023, an earthquake of unprecedented
violence devastated Turkey. This natural disaster did not leave the whole world
unmoved and indifferent to a drama that plunged the whole country into
mourning.
Israel is one of the first states to react to this natural disaster,
immediately offering its aid to Turkey.
Israel has thus deployed the second largest humanitarian aid delegation
(named “Olive Branches”), after that of Azerbaijan. A joint delegation made up
of the Israel Defense Forces, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry
of Defense.
This humanitarian aid delegation was made up of 450 active members,
including 140 doctors and nurses, several experts from other medical fields,
and 150 tons of humanitarian aid consisting of medical equipment, water
purification kits, food, blankets etc.
The mission of Israel's humanitarian aid delegation ended on February 15
and its members were able to return safe to Israel. The bravery of the members
of this delegation made it possible to save dozens of survivors from the rubble
and treat hundreds of victims.
On February 14, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen traveled to Turkey to
express his solidarity with the Turkish people.
During his visit, the Israeli minister met with the President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu , to whom he offered his condolences on behalf
of the people of Israel.
Israel has stood by Turkey during this difficult time and will continue
to make every effort to help find survivors and treat the injured.