Turkey avoids conflict with Israel despite military tensions in Syria

Turkey has reiterated its stance against engaging in armed conflict with Israel in Syria. Hakan Fidan, Turkey's Foreign Minister, made a statement indicating that repeated Israeli strikes in Syria are undermining the efforts of the Syrian government led by Ahmed al-Sharaa. Fidan expressed that no confrontation is desirable since Syria should remain in the hands of its own people. A Qatari report suggests that Turkey is establishing military bases in Syria, which underscores Ankara's growing involvement in the region. Concerns arise as Turkey's military presence could alter the balance of power in Syria, particularly following the Assad regime's decline. Additionally, reports indicated unconfirmed plans for Turkey to build a military base in Palmyra, illustrating a strategic interest in vital locations across Syria. Concurrently, Israeli military operations have ramped up, including an airstrike on military installations such as the T-4 Airbase, serving as a direct warning to Turkey. The escalation in hostilities presents a precarious situation for regional stability, with concerns discussed by experts such as Hay Eytan Cohen Yanarocak at Tel Aviv University. This heightened activity between Turkey and Israel reflects deeper geopolitical tensions. Further complicating relationships, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently called for the destruction of what he referred to as 'Zionist Israel' during a religious observance, thereby inflaming sentiments among his supporters. His statements resonate with Turkey's historical support for Palestinian rights and its opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza, and also exacerbate the already troubled relations between the two nations. In this ongoing confrontation, Turkey's strategic maneuvers in Syria could provoke further Israeli responses, leading to an increased risk of military engagements, contrary to Ankara's declared intentions. As the situation evolves, both countries are adjusting their military strategies in response to each other's moves, leading to a climate of mutual distrust that raises alarms through the international community. With Turkey positioning itself as a dominant player in the Syrian theater following the deviation of Russian influence, the landscape is shifting in favor of Ankara's assertiveness to secure its interests. However, the implication of these actions cannot be overlooked, as they may spark larger regional conflicts, drawing in various armed groups and intensifying the humanitarian crisis in Syria.