ISTANBUL: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has accused Israel of attempting to cast Turkey as its next adversary, saying the Israeli leadership appears unable to function without identifying a new enemy.
Relations between Turkey and Israel have deteriorated significantly since the Gaza conflict erupted after Hamas launched its October 7, 2023 attack.
Tensions intensified over the weekend when Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan warned U.S. President Donald Trump about potential provocations that could undermine a fragile ceasefire linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his government’s stance, pledging continued opposition to Iran and its regional allies.
Speaking in an interview with Anadolu Agency, Fidan claimed that elements within Israel’s government and even parts of the opposition are increasingly framing Turkey as a strategic rival.
“This reflects a broader shift in Israel’s policy thinking,” he said, suggesting that designating Turkey as an adversary may be evolving into a long-term state approach.
