Israel apologizes for feud with Turkey

Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman has apologized for a diplomatic feud that erupted last Monday. He says the treatment of Turkey's ambassador by his deputy was a mistake.

Avigdor Lieberman, Israeli Foreign Minister. said, "There is no doubt that the way it was conducted was a mistake. I want to remind you that for years we have shared a good relationship with Turkey, and we aren't looking for any disagreement or any disturbance with anyone."

The diplomatic feud began when Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon summoned the Turkish Ambassador to complain about a Turkish television show.

The program showed Israeli agents kidnapping children and shooting senior residents in Turkey. The ambassador was arranged to sit on a low sofa without a handshake.

Ayalon told local TV stations the humiliation was intentional. Turkey threatened to recall the ambassador, forcing Ayalon to apologize.

Israel's Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman speaks during a news conference with his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Store (not seen) after their meeting in Jerusalem January 17, 2010. REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun