Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently engaged in security consultations to address growing concerns over Turkey’s expanding influence in Syria The discussions focused on strategies to counter Turkey’s growing involvement, particularly its support for Syria’s new Islamist government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
According to “Walla,” the sources pointed to Syrian-Turkish communications regarding the transfer of areas near Palmyra to the Turkish army in exchange for economic and military support for Damascus. They emphasized that Turkey’s potential moves in Palmyra, central Syria, are causing significant Israeli concerns.
Channel 12 Hebrew reported that Netanyahu, through his advisors, is pushing Israeli media to emphasize that “a confrontation with Turkey on Syrian territory is inevitable”
According to reports, Netanyahu has convened multiple meetings with Israeli security agencies to assess the evolving situation in Syria. These discussions are focused on Turkey’s increasing involvement in Syrian affairs, particularly its support for the new Islamist-led government in Damascus. Israeli officials perceive this as a potential threat to their national security, fearing that Turkey’s backing could lead to the establishment of a regime hostile to Israel’s interests.
In response to these concerns, Israel is reportedly seeking to bolster its strategic ties with Russia. The Israeli government prefers a continued Russian military presence in Syria as a counterbalance to Turkish influence. This strategy includes lobbying the United States to support the maintenance of Russian bases in Syria, aiming to prevent Turkey from consolidating its position in the region.
