The article details Recep Tayyip ErdoÄŸan's consolidation of power in Turkey, marked by suppression of dissent and a shift towards neo-Ottomanism and Islamism. This has led to an increasingly hostile stance towards Israel, characterized by support for Hamas and anti-Zionist rhetoric.
ErdoÄŸan's actions, including hosting Hamas leaders and making inflammatory statements, are viewed as a significant threat to Israel. The article highlights the potential for a direct military conflict, referencing Israeli security assessments that view Turkey as a growing threat.
The article discusses Donald Trump's potential role in mediating the conflict, noting his past relationship with ErdoÄŸan and the possibility of using the F-35 program as leverage. However, the article also expresses skepticism about Trump's ability to effectively restrain ErdoÄŸan.
Turkey's strategic location, significant military capabilities, and economic strength are highlighted as factors contributing to its potential threat. ErdoÄŸan's aim to distance Turkey from the West and pursue its own regional ambitions is also discussed.
The article suggests that the Syrian conflict could be a flashpoint, with Turkey's support for the Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) militia raising concerns about the potential for a cross-border threat to Israel similar to that posed by Hezbollah from Lebanon. The interception of ammonium chloride destined for Gaza further underscores this concern.
The article concludes that addressing the escalating tensions requires more than just friendly relations and calls for a proactive approach to influence Ankara and mitigate the risk of another regional war.