A new rising threat to Israel

The only statement came from Ambassador Burke, who described the talks as conducted in a “positive atmosphere” and noted an agreement to continue such meetings. The vague announcement left unclear whether this signals the start of regular talks, who will participate or where and when they will occur.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, his close ally, escalated the rhetoric by saying “we won’t hesitate to use force,” cautioning Israel against military action and accusing it of using the Druze community as a pretext to “fuel chaos” in Syria. Fidan claimed Israel seeks to destabilize Syria, asserting that a strong and stable Syria is not in Israel’s interest.

Turkey is positioning itself to fill the void left by Iran’s forces in Syria. While no Turkish troops have entered Syria yet, both Ankara and Damascus are discussing a joint defense agreement. This would allow Erdogan to supply not only light and heavy weapons but also “instructors,” “trainers” and senior military officers to the Syrian army. In essence, Turkey is preparing to replace Iran’s military presence in Syria.

Israeli officials view Turkey as a greater threat than Iran’s military footprint in Syria. If Turkey fully engages, it could severely impact Syria’s Kurdish, Alawite and Druze communities. For now, Turkey is training Syrian soldiers on its territory, supplying military equipment and issuing directives to Syrian army commanders.

Burke said he will not interfere with Syria’s decisions but advised caution in deepening ties with Turkey. His firm tone suggests Washington is uneasy about Ankara’s swift moves in Syria and the threats issued by Erdogan and Fidan against Israel.

Syria, meanwhile, insisted during the Dermer-al-Shibani meeting that it has no intention of interfering in Israel’s affairs but “strongly requests” Israel’s withdrawal from its territory. Al-Assad has privately told foreign visitors that Israel is pushing to weaken Syria.

In contrast, Turkey seeks a comprehensive defense pact with Syria. Ankara is reportedly eyeing control over the airport in the Syrian city of al-Hama. This ambition should remind Syria’s president of Iran’s initial steps toward dominance.