Herzog’s message of congratulations, which was delivered via Twitter, expressed his hope for improved relations between the two countries, stating that “Congratulations to President @RTErdogan of Türkiye on his election victory. I am convinced that we will continue to work together to strengthen and expand the good ties between Türkiye and Israel”.

Herzog’s action is a notable deviation from the hostile language that has marked the relationship between Israel and Turkey in recent times. Once strong allies, their bond weakened after Israel’s 2010 raid on a Turkish aid flotilla en route to Gaza, which led to the death of nine Turkish activists. This event triggered a range of disagreements between the two nations, including disputes over Israel’s treatment of Palestinians and Turkey’s support for Hamas.

Turkey was the first Muslim-majority nation to recognize Israel in March 1949, leading to a strong alliance between the two nations and a shared concern over the instability in the Middle East. However, the relationship between the two countries has soured in recent years. Nevertheless, in 2022, the two countries restored their relationship and normalized their ties.

Herzog’s message of congratulations to Erdogan is another indication of the willingness of both countries to move past their differences and work towards a more positive relationship. It is also a reflection of Herzog’s commitment to promoting peace and dialogue in the region. Since taking office in July 2021, Herzog has been vocal about his desire to improve Israel’s relations with its neighbors and has taken steps to reach out to leaders in the Arab world.

The fact that Herzog congratulated Erdogan on his election win is also significant, as it underscores the importance of respecting democratic processes and institutions. While Turkey’s recent elections have been subject to criticism from some quarters, Herzog’s message of congratulations is a clear signal that Israel recognizes the legitimacy of the country’s electoral process and institutions.

It is uncertain whether this act of goodwill will result in significant changes in the relationship between Israel and Turkey. There are still numerous issues that separate the two countries, and it will take more than a friendly message to bridge the gap. Nonetheless, Herzog’s move is a positive step in the correct direction, and it is expected that Erdogan and other Turkish leaders will reciprocate it.

Speaking after talks with Herzog, who was making the first visit by an Israeli leader to Turkey since 2008, Erdogan said he had conveyed Turkey’s approach on the Palestinian issue to him.

Erdogan while addressing a press conference said, “having talks with President Herzog. He may be visiting Turkey soon,” according to the Turkey’s Anadolu news agency.

Erdogan also told reporters that there are possibilities of energy deal between Turkey and Israel, and he is open to change his behavior to smoothen relations with the Jewish state.

“We are now holding talks with President Herzog. He could visit us in Turkey. Prime Minister [Naftali] Bennett also has a positive approach,” Erdogan said. “As Turkey, we will do our best to cooperate on a win-win basis”.

“As politicians, we should not be there to fight but to live in peace”, Erdogan added.

In an effort to mend ways, Erdogan called Herzog last week to offer condolences on the death of his mother, after he had sent a letter.

Erdogan flattered Herzog that his late mother, Aura Herzog, would be proud “of your service to the citizens of Israel.”

In November 2021, Erdogan personally intervened to release an Israeli couple who were arrested and held for more than a week in Istanbul.

Meanwhile, Herzog’s spokesperson declined to comment about the visit as of now. A senior diplomatic official told Ynet that there had been discussions about Herzog traveling to Turkey, but “no decisions that it will happen”.