The 'Gaza' rift in the AKP: Has this space been left to the New Welfare Party?

Gazete Pencere columnist Nuray Babacan reported from behind the scenes that "Gaza has divided the AKP; there are those who say a more active role should be taken." Babacan also added, "There are those who say this space has been left to the New Welfare Party and that the consequences of this will be seen in the elections."

12punto

Gazete Pencere columnist Nuray Babacan reported from behind the scenes that "Gaza has divided the AKP; there are those who say a more active role should be taken." 

Stating that foreign policy is on the AKP's agenda, the relevant section of Babacan's article is as follows:

"HAS THIS SPACE BEEN LEFT TO THE YRP?"

"The excitement surrounding the local elections has prevented both the terror issue in Turkey and the interesting steps taken in Africa recently from being discussed sufficiently. Three topics that could create both advantages and risks for Turkey are on the agenda of those interested in foreign policy. There are notable observations regarding recent developments in Northern Iraq, the recent agreements made with Somalia and Djibouti, and the passive stance on Gaza. Among these topics, the most criticized is the government's 'passive' attitude regarding Gaza. This issue has divided AKP members. There are those who want Turkey to take a more active role and those who defend its current position. There are those who argue that food aid should be delivered to the Gaza region by air, as France and Jordan have done, and that Turkey could take a humanitarian role by cooperating with Jordan. This 'attitude-less' policy, which has caused the AKP to remain outside the mediation process, is being harshly criticized. There are those who say that this space has been left to the New Welfare Party and that the consequences of this will be seen in the elections."