The United States Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said he was worried relations between Turkey and Israel could take a turn for the worse.

Gates who is visiting England said Wednesday in London that he was worried straining of relations between Turkey and Israel could have a negative impact on the stability of the region. He said he hopes relations between the two countries will be restored in time.

Gates said the reluctance of European Union to enhance ties with Turkey pushed Ankara to the East, Today’s Zaman reported.