Mordi and Natali Oknin released from prison in Turkey and are returning to Israel
After joint efforts with Turkey, Mordi and Natali Oknin were released from prison and are on their way home to Israel.
Natalie and Mordy Oknin, the Israeli couple had been facing charges of espionage in Turkey after taking pictures of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s residence on Nov. 12 Source: Facebook.
Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid thanked the President of Turkey and his government for their cooperation and look forward to welcoming the couple back home.
They also expressed their respect to the Oknin family for their strength during this complicated time and for their cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Additionally, they conveyed special thanks to President Herzog for his efforts to help bring them home.
Prime Minister Bennett and Foreign Minister Lapid spoke this morning (Thursday, 18 November 2021), with Shiraz, the daughter of Natali Oknin, and with Eran, Natali’s brother, who are waiting for Mordy and Natali Oknin at the airport.
Naftali Bennett told Shiraz: “Shiraz it is wonderful to speak with you again. You see? I told you that we are doing everything, and indeed we did everything. You were a wonderful partner. The family’s restraint was very critical in those days.
Give little Ofek a hug for me. Mum and Dad are on their way home.”
Foreign Minister Yair Lapid added: “Shiraz, Eran, and the entire family, you are amazing. I am very excited for you. We were with you all week. We promised that we would do everything to bring them back to you and now, they are on their way home. Give them a big hug for us.”
GPO
