Erdogan calls Herzog to ‘sharply condemn’ recent attacks against Israelis

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called President Isaac Herzog on Friday and “sharply condemned” the attacks that killed 11 Israelis over the last two weeks.

“President Erdogan asked to send his condolences to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones and wished a speedy recovery to the injured,” a statement from Herzog’s office quoted him as saying.

“Both presidents emphasized that on the eve of the holidays of Ramadan, Passover and Easter there is a need for action to maintain calm in the whole region,” the statement said.

The call comes amid efforts by Ankara and Jerusalem to improve long-tense ties between the two nations.

Once robust regional allies, Israel and Turkey saw their ties fray during Erdogan’s tenure. He has been an outspoken critic of Israel’s policies toward the Palestinians.