Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described Turkey as a "new adversary" for his country, issuing stern remarks regarding Ankara during a recent interview.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Netanyahu, in an interview with the local "Channel 14" television station, referenced criticisms directed at him by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. He claimed that these statements stem from the policies currently being pursued by Israel.
Emphasizing that Israel is a geographically small state, Netanyahu stated that it is essential to take proactive measures to secure the country's future. The Prime Minister remarked, "We must protect our country's future, prevent the rearmament of those we consider enemies, and stop the emergence of 'new adversaries' like Turkey."
Netanyahu's direct characterization of Turkey as an adversary has drawn significant attention. During the interview, he also addressed the situation in the Gaza Strip, stating that if Hamas does not lay down its arms, the scale of military operations could expand. He did not rule out the possibility of a full occupation of the Gaza Strip if deemed necessary. Regarding the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, the Israeli leader declared that he has opposed it in the past and will continue to oppose the creation of such a state in the future.
The relationship between Israel and Turkey has experienced significant volatility in recent years, oscillating between periods of diplomatic normalization and intense rhetorical confrontation, particularly regarding the conflict in Gaza and broader regional geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.
