BEIRUT- Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak will head to Ankara over the weekend for talks with Turkish leaders including Turkish President Abdullah Gul, Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul and senior military officials , an official in Barak's office told AFP on Tuesday, as tension between the longstanding allies again spike.

He added that the visit would take place despite the rising tension, which erupted on Monday after Israel complained to Ankara over the broadcasting of a television series portraying Mossad agents as baby snatchers.

"We give this visit much importance. The ties between the two countries are important, and they must be maintained even if there are ups and downs," the official said.