Israel conducts multiple airstrikes on Syrian military airbases amid Israel-Turkey tensions
In the midst of rising tensions with Turkey, Israel has carried out multiple airstrikes on Syrian military airbases, sending a clear message to Turkey to refrain from obstructing Israeli aircraft operations in Syrian airspace. The Israeli Defense Forces targeted strategic sites at the Hama military airport and the T-4 airbase, where runways, fuel storage facilities, radar systems, and weapon depots were destroyed.
These strikes occurred at airbases under the control of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, which are currently being planned for further use and the establishment of air defense systems by Turkey. Turkey is interested in increasing its military presence in Syria and aims to take control of the T-4 airbase.
In a sharp response to Israel’s attacks, Turkey’s Foreign Ministry condemned the airstrikes, labeling Israel as "racist and extremist" and described the attacks as "unjustified" and a "threat to regional security."
Experts suggest that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is seeking to regain Turkey's influence in Syria as Russia and Iran’s influence in the region wanes. This is seen as an attempt to re-establish Turkey as a neo-Ottoman power in the region.
Turkey’s recent rhetoric, particularly prayers for the destruction of Israel during Ramadan, has raised concerns among observers in both Israel and the United States. Furthermore, some have recommended imposing conditions on the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey to maintain control over Turkey’s actions.
Israeli officials are closely monitoring Turkey’s moves in Syria, as Turkey’s potential success in establishing long-term air defense systems could pose a threat to Israel’s aerial operations.
Experts indicate that Erdoğan’s goal is to increase Turkey's influence over the Syrian border and to establish the Muslim Brotherhood’s influence in the Middle East.
Additionally, Israeli security analysts have warned that Turkey’s strategy could complicate the geopolitical situation in Syria and the broader Middle East, posing a significant security challenge for Israel.
