Israel’s attacks in Syria meant as warning to Turkey as tensions escalate
Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Syrian military airfields this week, targeting strategic assets at both the Hama military airport and the T-4 airbase. The strikes were intended to send a clear message to Turkey not to interfere with Israeli aerial operations in Syrian airspace. This marks a significant escalation in Jerusalem’s stance toward Ankara, as Turkey seeks to expand its military presence in Syria amidst regional instability.
The Israeli Defense Forces meticulously planned the airstrikes, targeting runways, fuel storage sites, radar systems, and weapons caches at the two airbases, which were previously under the control of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. However, Turkey has reportedly expressed interest in taking control of these bases and deploying air defense systems there. Reports suggest that Turkish forces have already begun moves to seize the T-4 base and are planning to install defense systems.
Turkey’s ambitions in Syria have raised concerns in Israel and prompted a swift response to the growing Turkish presence. The Turkish Foreign Ministry condemned Israel’s actions as “inconceivable” and accused the Israeli government of pursuing expansionist goals. The ministry labeled Israel as “racist and fundamentalist” and criticized its military operations as a threat to regional security.
Dr. Sinan Ciddi, a Turkey expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, believes that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is seeking to capitalize on the regional power vacuum left by Russia and Iran. Erdogan aims to position Turkey as a dominant player in the region, particularly through military footholds like the airbases in Syria. Ciddi suggests that Erdogan’s long-term strategy includes projecting power in Syria, forging alliances with the new government in Damascus, and securing access to F-35 fighter jets from the US.
The recent inflammatory rhetoric from Erdogan, including prayers for the destruction of Israel, has further heightened tensions in the region. Former US Ambassador to Turkey Eric Edelman has called for diplomatic intervention to deescalate the situation and prevent further conflict. Edelman emphasized the need for clear understandings if Turkey were to acquire F-35 fighter jets.
Inside Israel, officials are closely monitoring Turkey’s actions in Syria and are prepared to escalate the rules of engagement to counter any threats posed by Erdogan’s ambitions. Avner Golov, vice president of Mind Israel, warned that Erdogan’s expansionist goals could pose a significant ideological threat to the region. Golov stressed the importance of preventing Turkey from establishing a long-range air defense umbrella near Israel’s border.
As tensions rise between Israel and Turkey, it is crucial for diplomatic efforts to mitigate the risk of further conflict. The international community must work together to address the growing power struggles in the Middle East and prevent the escalation of hostilities.
