Turkey may view Israel as its regional rival after strikes in Syria – analysis

Turkey's perception of Israel is shifting from a focus on the Palestinian issue to viewing Israel as a direct regional rival, particularly following recent Israeli airstrikes in Syria aimed at deterring Turkish expansion. This change is rooted in Turkey's evolving foreign policy and Israel's increased involvement in regional security. Once allies from the 1950s to 1990s, relations deteriorated after 2009, exacerbated by events like the Mavi Marmara raid and Turkey's support for Hamas. While Turkey previously held a dominant regional position, Israel's growing economic and defense capabilities, alongside the Abraham Accords, have led to a more balanced dynamic. An Al Jazeera article notes, “Ankara views Israeli attempts to undermine the Syrian transition as having direct repercussions for its national security.” Consequently, Turkey is now exercising more caution in its rhetoric, with officials advising against immediate confrontation, as both nations increasingly see each other as equals in the region.