Erdogan Accuses Israel of Terrorist Activity and Obstruction of Syrian Peace Process

Erdogan Denounces Israeli aggression in Syria, Cites Druze as Pretext

Ankara, Türkiye – President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Türkiye has strongly condemned the recent Israeli airstrikes in Syria, labeling Israel a “terrorist state” and asserting that the Druze community is being used as a pretext to enforce intimidation within the country. The remarks were made following a cabinet meeting on Thursday.

Erdogan highlighted what he described as concerted efforts to undermine the fragile truce in Syria, developments in which Türkiye has played a role. “Israel does not want peace,” he stated, emphasizing his nation’s commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity and multicultural fabric.

He confirmed discussions held on Thursday with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the head of the transitional government in Syria, regarding the latest escalations. Erdogan conveyed his view that the israeli attacks are unacceptable and pose a notable threat to regional stability.

In response, Al-Sharaa expressed gratitude to President Erdogan for Türkiye’s unwavering support in safeguarding Syria’s political unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. He acknowledged the critical juncture Syria faces amidst these heightened tensions.

The recent hostilities saw Israeli forces launch multiple air raids targeting key locations in Damascus, including the General Staff building and the Tishreen presidential palace.These attacks reportedly extended to the rural areas of Damascus, Daraa, and the city of Sweida, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.

What are the potential consequences of a further deterioration in Turkey-Israel relations for regional stability?

Escalating Tensions: A Breakdown of the Accusations

turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has repeatedly leveled strong accusations against Israel, alleging both terrorist activity and intentional obstruction of efforts to achieve a lasting peace in Syria.These claims, made throughout 2024 and escalating into July 2025, represent a significant deterioration in already strained relations between the two nations. The core of Erdogan’s argument centers around what he describes as Israel’s support for Kurdish militant groups within Syria and its alleged interference in diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving the Syrian civil war. This rhetoric is fueled by differing geopolitical interests and a history of disagreements over regional stability, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the status of Jerusalem.

Specific Allegations: What is Erdogan Claiming?

Erdogan’s accusations aren’t vague. He has specifically pointed to several areas of concern:

Support for the YPG: Turkey views the Syrian kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a designated terrorist association responsible for decades of conflict within Turkey. Erdogan alleges Israel is providing military aid and logistical support to the YPG, enabling them to operate against Turkish interests and syrian government forces.

Undermining Astana Process: The Astana process, involving Turkey, Russia, and Iran, aims to establish a ceasefire and political settlement in Syria. Erdogan claims Israel actively works to undermine this process through various means, including supporting opposition groups and conducting unauthorized military operations within Syrian territory.

Intelligence Sharing: Accusations extend to alleged intelligence sharing between Israeli and Kurdish forces,purportedly used to target Turkish military personnel and allied Syrian factions.

Economic Interference: Beyond military and intelligence concerns, Erdogan has also hinted at Israeli economic activities in syria that he believes are designed to destabilize the region and benefit from the ongoing conflict. This includes alleged involvement in illicit oil trade.

Israel’s Response and Counter-Arguments

Israel has consistently denied Erdogan’s accusations, dismissing them as “baseless” and “inflammatory rhetoric.” Israeli officials maintain that their limited involvement in Syria is solely focused on preventing Iran from establishing a military foothold in the country and protecting Israeli national security interests.

Focus on Iran: Israel argues its actions in Syria are directed against Iranian-backed militias and infrastructure, not against the Syrian government or Kurdish groups. They claim to avoid direct confrontation with Turkish forces.

Humanitarian Aid: Israel has provided humanitarian aid to Syrian civilians through various channels, including medical assistance and food supplies, arguing this demonstrates a commitment to alleviating suffering, not exacerbating conflict.

Self-Defense: israeli officials assert that any actions taken within Syria are in self-defense,responding to threats posed by iranian and Hezbollah elements operating in the region.

Denial of YPG Support: Israel firmly denies providing any form of support, military or otherwise, to the YPG.

Regional Implications and potential for Escalation

The escalating rhetoric between turkey and Israel carries significant regional implications.

Syrian Conflict: The accusations further complicate the already complex Syrian conflict, possibly hindering peace efforts and exacerbating existing tensions between various actors.

Turkey-Israel Relations: the diplomatic fallout could lead to a further deterioration in relations, potentially impacting trade, security cooperation, and regional diplomacy. Historically, Turkey and Israel maintained strategic partnerships, but these have been repeatedly strained by disagreements over the Israeli-palestinian conflict and other regional issues.

Increased Proxy Conflicts: The situation raises the risk of increased proxy conflicts within Syria, with Turkey potentially taking more assertive action against groups it perceives as being supported by Israel.

Impact on regional Alliances: The dispute could influence regional alliances, potentially pushing Turkey closer to Russia and Iran, while further isolating Israel.

Historical Context: Turkey-Israel Relations

Understanding the current situation requires a look at the historical trajectory of Turkey-Israel relations:

Early Cooperation (1990s): The 1990s saw a period of close cooperation, driven by shared security concerns and economic interests. This included military cooperation, intelligence sharing, and trade agreements.

deterioration (2000s): Relations began to sour in the early 2000s, notably following the Israeli military operation in Gaza and the subsequent criticism from Turkey.

Mavi marmara Incident (2010): The 2010 raid on the Mavi Marmara flotilla, a Turkish-led aid convoy attempting to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza, resulted in the deaths of nine Turkish citizens and a severe diplomatic crisis.

**Normalization Attempts (2016):