Minister Eli Cohen stated Thursday evening that Israel would respond to any Turkish military base establishment in Syria by building its own bases, the latest escalation in rhetoric between the two countries. The remarks, reported by a single source, come amid a backdrop of rising tensions over Turkish involvement in Syria and Israeli security concerns.
Minister Eli Cohen on Thursday evening issued a stark warning to Turkey, stating that Israel would match any Turkish military base construction in Syria with its own base-building. The statement, reported by a single source, reflects the hardening of Israeli positions as Ankara continues to expand its military footprint in Syria.
The Zioneer has previously reported on a series of escalatory moves and statements between the two countries. Turkey has condemned Israel over clashes in southern Syria, with Ankara warning of 'military consequences.' Reports have also emerged that Turkey plans to deploy radar systems in Syria, which Israeli defense officials fear could compromise Israeli Air Force operations. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has repeatedly threatened Israel and signaled that Turkey seeks to position itself as an alternative patron for Lebanon.
Cohen's remarks appear to be the first direct Israeli ministerial threat to establish bases in Syria in response to Turkish moves. It remains unclear whether the statement reflects official government policy or a personal position. No official response from Turkey has been reported yet.
- DevelopingSecurity source warns Turkey is entrenching in Syria, rebuilding army and infrastructure
- StrongIsraeli minister calls to 'prepare for war' in sharp attack on Turkey
- DevelopingMinister Eli Cohen: War between Syria and Hezbollah is a matter of time, Israel will stay deep inside Syria
- StrongMinister Shikly warns: Israel will eventually fight Syria; Turkey and Syria more troubling than Iran
Source and signal
A single-sourced dispatch is never rated Confirmed or Strong. Its Signal strengthens only when a second, independent source corroborates it.
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