Concerns over security have risen in Turkey following an Israeli attack in Qatar. Ankara fears it could be the next target. Israeli-Turkish relations have further deteriorated after the Gaza war.
Israeli Attack: An airstrike by Israel on a meeting of Hamas officials in Doha, the capital of Qatar, has caused a stir across the region. Following this incident, deep concerns over security have escalated in Turkey. Ankara fears it might become the next target. Turkey's Ministry of National Defense spokesperson, Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk, issued a statement warning that Israel could escalate such reckless attacks, pushing the entire region towards instability and devastation.
The History of Israeli-Turkish Relations
Israel and Turkey were once considered close regional partners. However, their relations began to rapidly deteriorate in the late 2000s. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel. This was followed by the Gaza war, and Israeli-Turkish relations have worsened ever since. The Gaza conflict has further widened the gap between the two countries.
Competition for Influence in Syria
Following the weakening of the Assad government in Syria, both Turkey and Israel have been trying to establish dominance in Damascus. This competition has further heightened tensions. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has long supported Palestine and, after the onset of the Gaza war, accused Israel of genocide. Erdoğan even stated that Prime Minister Netanyahu's policies were akin to Hitler's.
Why Turkey is a Haven for Hamas Leaders
Turkey has become a safe haven for Hamas leaders. Many top leaders reside there, and several frequently visit Turkey. Israel has previously alleged that Turkey permits Hamas to plan, recruit for, and fund attacks from its soil. This is precisely why the wall of mistrust between Turkey and Israel has grown higher.
Partnership Between Qatar and Turkey
Erdoğan shares b ties with the leaders of Qatar. The military and trade partnership between Turkey and Qatar is quite deep. Erdoğan will also be attending the summit of Arab and Muslim leaders to be held in Qatar this week. After the attack on Qatar, concerns have risen that Turkey might also be added to Israel's list of aerial targets.
Israel's Expanding Reach
Israel has conducted attacks on the territories of Iran, Syria, Yemen, and now Qatar in recent months. This has caused concern in Ankara. Turkey believes that Israel can easily penetrate the airspace of neighboring countries and launch attacks. Turkish researcher Serhat Güvenc Çubukçuoğlu states that Israel is conducting attacks while disregarding regional air defense and international norms. Ankara views this as part of Israel's strategy to create a buffer zone of weaker states around itself.
Turkey vs. Israel
By attacking a close ally of the United States like Qatar, Israel has raised a new question: how far will it go in targeting Hamas? Turkey's position differs from Qatar's because it is a NATO member, providing it with additional security. In terms of military strength, Turkey also significantly surpasses Gulf nations. It is the largest military power in NATO after the United States. Furthermore, its defense industry is highly advanced.
