No changes in Turkish-Israel relationships are contemplated, according to a Turkish reply received today by the Israel Government. The reply came following a note sent to the Turkish Government immediately after the conclusion of the Turco-Iraqi pact. The Turkish answer was handed to Israel’s Ambassador in Ankara this week.
Reports reaching Turkey indicate that in Syria and Lebanon there is a movement among leading Arabs to end the hostility against Israel and to seek a way to reach peace with Israel. The visit of Ambassador Eric Johnston to the Middle East at the end of this month may pave the way for such action, it is believed here.
The Turkish Government, which is the major partner in the Turkish-Iraqi defense treaty, is anxious to see conciliation between Israel and the Arab countries. It is felt here that Israel would be ready to join a Middle East defense pact immediately after concluding peace with the Arab countries. It is also believed here that the admission of Israel into a general Middle East defense pact would greatly strengthen the defense of the area, in which Turkey has so far taken the lead.
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