Israel Approves Armenian Genocide Recognition, Deepening Diplomatic Rift With Turkiye

Israel has taken a historic step towards formally recognising the Armenian Genocide , with its Cabinet unanimously approving a proposal to designate the mass killings of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire during World War I as genocide. The measure now awaits approval by the Knesset , which would make it Israel's first formal parliamentary recognition of the 1915 atrocities.

The proposal, introduced by Foreign Minister Gideon Saar , marks a major shift in Israeli policy after decades of avoiding formal recognition to preserve ties with Turkiye . Historians estimate that up to 1.5 million Armenians were killed during the final years of the Ottoman Empire, an event widely regarded by scholars as the first genocide of the 20th century. Turkiye rejects the genocide designation, arguing the deaths occurred during civil unrest and wartime turmoil.

Calling the decision a " moral and historical duty ," Saar said extensive historical evidence makes continued denial indefensible and stressed that "it is never too late to do the right thing." The Cabinet resolution also condemns attempts to deny, minimise or distort the historical record. Israel noted that 32 countries, including the United States, Syria and Lebanon, have recognised the genocide. No date has yet been announced for the parliamentary vote.

Turkiye strongly condemned the move, describing it as politically motivated and accusing Israel of attempting to divert global attention from allegations over its military campaign in Gaza. The decision comes as Israel continues to reject accusations of genocide in Gaza, insisting its military operations began after Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack and target militants rather than civilians. Last week, UN-appointed independent experts renewed allegations of genocide and accused Israeli forces of deliberately shooting children, claims Israel dismissed as a "libelous sham."