(JTA) – Shots reportedly were fired from inside the Turkish Embassy in Tel Aviv. Israeli media have reported that a Palestinian from Ramallah barricaded himself inside the building Tuesday night with two hostages. He allegedly was threatening to “kill any Jews” who enter, according to Haaretz.
The streets around the embassy have been closed. Embassy staff reportedly have prevented police and medical personnel from entering the building.
Relations between Turkey and Israel have been strained since Israeli troops entered Gaza in late December 2008 as part of Operation Lead Cast. They were further tested in May when Israeli troops boarded a Turkish-owned boat attempting to enter Gazan waters in defiance of an Israeli blockade. Nine Turkish nationals were killed in the ensuing clash.
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