"We call upon the Israeli government to join us in issuing a join declaration for a comprehensive cease-fire to take place immediately and to begin implementation of the Mitchell recommendations under international supervision, expeditiously and immediately, " said the statement.

CNN: Israel hits back after deadly bombing

Mindful of nationalist sentiment at home, Turkey decided to issue a declaration, after signing the protocol, that it would recognise Cyprus only after a comprehensive settlement for the whole island was reached.

ECONOMIST: Turkey and the European Union