Writing for the Israeli press, Former Head of Mossad Counterterrorism Division Oded Eilam expressed Israel’s apprehension of Turkey’s military capabilities and fear of entering into conflict in Syria. Eilam highlighted that Israel is concerned about engaging in conflict in Syria due to Turkey’s military capabilities. In a piece published in Israel Hayom, Eilam claimed that Israel and Turkey are heading towards conflict in Syria. He noted that the post-Baath regime period in Syria had started rapidly, creating a “troublesome strategic reality” for Israel, which has carried out massacres in the Gaza Strip while occupying parts of Lebanese and Syrian territories. He stated that “Israel is changing its focus and fears confrontation.” Eilam pointed out that the Tel Aviv administration had focused on Iran until now, but a new player has emerged. Turkey possesses the second-strongest army in NATO, with intelligence and air capabilities exceeding those of Iran, according to Eilam.

Eilam recalled that the Israeli military had conducted air strikes in some areas of Syria in recent weeks and expressed great concern about Turkey establishing military bases in Syria and having Turkish Armed Forces near the country’s northern border. He argued that Israel would need to make fundamental tactical changes to prevent Turkey from deploying a missile defense system in Syria. Eilam claimed that the most worrying scenario for Israel would be Turkey deploying an F-16 fleet with HISAR and S-400 air defense systems in Syria, as this would mean Israel’s actions would face repercussions.

Beyond military concerns, Eilan suggested that it is no longer a theoretical scenario for Israel to come directly face to face with Turkey, indicating that the question is not if but when the conflict will happen. He highlighted Turkey’s military significance for countries like Azerbaijan, Qatar, and Libya, stating that “Turkey is no longer a guest in Syria but the host.” Eilam emphasized the need for Israel to ask for assistance from the U.S., pointing out that the U.S. has been silent on Turkey’s effectiveness. He argued that in such a situation, only one superpower can disrupt the balance: the U.S., and Israel should urge Washington to intervene immediately and help stop Turkey.