The Hebrew press continues to focus heavily on developments in Syria, with ongoing warnings about Turkey’s role in shaping the “new Syria.”
Israeli Orientalist Eyal Zisser is among those raising alarms about Turkey’s influence in Syria. Writing for Israel Hayom, Zisser asserts that while “the countdown in Iran has begun for the fall of the Ayatollah regime, Turkey is moving in the opposite direction and heading towards Islamization.”
In his article, Zisser reflects on Iran’s past efforts to encircle Israel. He argues that “the fall of Assad’s regime in Syria has ended Iran’s project and pushed Tehran back significantly.” However, according to Zisser, Israel appears to be shifting its focus to a new adversary: Turkey.
Zisser states, “In life, there is no vacuum, and Turkey, under Erdoğan’s leadership, has quickly filled Iran’s place.” He accuses Erdoğan of being the driving force behind Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, the de facto leader of northern Syria. Zisser claims that Erdoğan “funded, supported, and gave him the green light to attack and dismantle the Damascus regime.”
Attempts to Incite Against Turkey in the Region
Zisser’s rhetoric takes on a broader scope as he warns that Turkey’s role in Syria is not only a threat to Israel but also to Jordan and the Arab states. In a clear attempt to stoke regional fears, he alleges that “while Israel fears the infiltration of terrorism from Syria into its borders, Jordan is concerned about the spread of radical Islamic revolutionary ideas into its society.”
Zisser further suggests that Erdoğan aims to push Iran, with its Shiite leadership, out of the region. He emphasizes the rivalry between Turkey and Iran, framing it as a competition for political and religious dominance in the Middle East.
Questioning Turkey’s Capabilities
Despite his alarmist tone, Zisser casts doubt on Turkey’s ability to control Syria fully. He argues, “Although al-Jolani has relied on Erdoğan’s support, it is doubtful whether he would want to become a subordinate or even a proxy for Turkey. Moreover, Turkey lacks the economic and military resources to become the ‘master’ of Syria.”
Nevertheless, Zisser continues his campaign against Turkey, portraying Erdoğan as harboring grand ambitions to revive the Ottoman Empire. He writes, “Erdoğan has great aspirations—to return to the glory of the past, to the days of the Ottoman Empire that dominated the entire Middle East. Islamic fanaticism, coupled with hostility toward Israel, is the glue Erdoğan seeks to use to piece together the Middle Eastern puzzle and secure his control over it.”
Analysis and Strategic Implications
This article highlights the shifting narrative in Israeli circles, where the focus on Iran is increasingly accompanied by a new emphasis on Turkey as a rising adversary. It reveals Israel’s efforts to incite regional actors against Turkey, framing it as a common threat to Israel, Jordan, and the Arab states.
Moreover, Zisser’s portrayal of Erdoğan as seeking to fill a vacuum left by Iran’s retreat underscores the deep unease within Israeli political and military establishments regarding Turkey’s assertiveness in the region. However, his admission of Turkey’s limited resources suggests an attempt to downplay Ankara’s capabilities even as he warns of its ambitions.
