Turkey's rise is creating a rare point of agreement for Israel, China – opinion

Israel and China, despite differing strategic views on the Middle East, share a growing concern regarding Turkey's expanding regional influence, particularly in Syria. Israel is wary of Turkey's increasing military and political role near its northern border and its involvement in Gaza, viewing it as an attempt to shape the regional order. China's concern stems from Turkey's influence over the Uyghur and Turkistani communities in northern Syria. Beijing fears that Turkey's historical narrative and cultural ties could shape the identity of a second generation of Uyghurs, potentially reinforcing separatist sentiments and creating future security threats, especially as these communities develop outside Chinese state institutions. Both nations are observing Turkey's increasing ability to project power and influence beyond its borders, albeit for different reasons: Israel focuses on regional military balance, while China is concerned with the long-term security implications of identity formation and transnational connections.