Turkey announced on Friday that it would suspend all trade with Israel until a "permanent cease-fire" is achieved in the Gaza Strip. This move adds to the international pressure on Israel to end the conflict in the region. Despite Turkey's trade suspension, Israel has continued to prepare for an offensive in Gaza, drawing criticism from Turkish officials. Israel's isolation has increased as some countries downgrade or sever ties, and even close allies such as the United States, Britain, and Germany have become more openly critical of its actions. The United Nations has warned of potentially catastrophic consequences if Israel were to launch an offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Efforts to broker a cease-fire and release hostages are ongoing, with Egypt, Qatar, and the United States leading negotiations between Israel and Hamas.