PM denies reports of compensation to Turkey

Plenum to hold hearing over question of Turkish demand for apology, compensation for flotilla victims. 'I am certain government's answer to motion for agenda will be that Israel has no intention of compensating these terrorists,' says MK Danon. Netanyahu: We acted in self defense

Roni Sofer|Last update: 12.13.10 , 18:32

During a Likud faction meeting on Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said reports regarding financial compensation for the families of Turkish citizens who were killed during the May 31 raid on a Gaza-bound flotilla were false.

He said talks with Ankara regarding possible diplomatic solutions to the dispute were ongoing but added that all lawsuits against IDF commanders must be withdrawn.

"They must recognize the fact that we did not act out of malice, but in self-defense," the PM said.

Earlier, a commission of parliamentary faction leaders headed by the knesset speaker approved holding a plenum hearing on Turkey's demand for an apology and compensation following the fatal navy raid on the Marmara ship last may.

The Turkish aid delegation, which was sent to help battle the Carmel forest fire last week sparked hope for renewed negotiations between the two countries.

Disagreement

'Erdogan seeks reconciliation; Barak won't apologize'

Ynet

Turkish prime minister wants to normalize relations with Israel before upcoming June elections, but defense minister, IDF officials refuse to issue apology, a Turkish newspaper report claims

'Erdogan seeks reconciliation; Barak won't apologize'

As part of the talks, Jerusalem is considering whether to apologize to Turkey and pay compensation to the families of the nine victims who died and dozens of others who were injured during the deadly clash.

The Turkish demands have stirred a storm in Israel's political and public echelons. Deputy Knesset Speaker Danny Danon (Likud) urged the commission to raise the issue on the daily agenda.

"It is inconceivable that the State of Israel will compensate terrorists that harmed navy commandoes. Such compensation is like surrendering to terror and creating motivation for future attacks.

"I am certain that the government's answer to the motion for the agenda will be that Israel has no intention of compensating these terrorists," he said.

Coalition Chairman MK Zeev Elkin (Likud) said the cabinet has not made a decision on the Turkey's demands, and has yet to declare its official position.

MK Danon is scheduled to submit the motion for the agenda during a Knesset plenum hearing on Wednesday, which will compel the government to present its stance on the matter.