What it’s about
Turkey is considering establishing a military base in Syria amidst growing cooperation between Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This potential development raises security concerns for Israel, particularly regarding its freedom to operate in the region.
Why it matters
The establishment of a Turkish military base in Syrian territory represents a strategic shift that could challenge Israel’s operational capabilities and intelligence activities across its northern frontier. Additional involvement from Turkey, following extensive collaboration agreements with Syria, could significantly influence regional dynamics, potentially heightening tensions.
What Israeli officials are saying
An Israeli security source stressed that the establishment of Turkish military installations in Syria could undermine Israel’s military activities. “This is a potential threat that we oppose,” the official remarked, highlighting the risk to Israel’s freedom and security interests.
Background
In recent developments, Turkish President Erdogan has expressed strong opposition to Israel, criticizing its actions in creating buffer zones in Syria. Concurrently, Israel remains vigilant about any actions that would bolster Turkish influence in Syria, especially ones that aid or mediate for President al-Sharaa’s government.
Israel’s response
Reaffirming that Israel will not tolerate threats to its aerial superiority, an IDF operation targeted the Tiyas Air Base in late March 2025, neutralizing potential strategic threats housed there. Israeli defense officials convey a firm stance that key Israeli security interests cannot be compromised.
The larger picture
Today’s dynamics follow a complex narrative woven throughout the Middle East as countries like Syria and Turkey strengthen ties under collaborative agreements. President Ergodan’s moves further underscore a strategic pivot influencing regional powers, with significant implications for Israel’s security landscape.
This story was first published on jpost.com.