Israel-Turkey tensions: Turkish naval moves push the Israeli military to prepare for a dangerous scenario

Israeli reports say the Israeli navy has detected increased Turkish naval preparations in recent months, including military exercises and a stronger presence in the Mediterranean and areas where the Israeli navy operates. According to Israel’s public broadcaster Kan, the Israeli military views these moves as a possible “shift,” prompting it to raise operational and strategic readiness for a potential military confrontation with Turkey.

This comes amid rising tensions between the two countries, especially in light of developments in Syria. About two weeks ago, the Israeli Air Force carried out a raid on al-Duhur Airport in Syria after observing preparations by the Turkish army to deploy forces at the base.

Days later, Israeli reports indicated that security officials had informed the United States that Turkey was preparing to deploy a radar at the airport, a step that Israel considered capable of affecting the regional balance of power.

According to officials familiar with the communications between Israel and the United States, Israel has not specified an expected date for the arrival of the Turkish systems in Syria, but has indicated an airport located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) from the Turkish border as a potential deployment site.

Despite raising the level of alert, Israeli security sources affirm that Israel does not seek to turn Turkey into a direct enemy. A source in the security establishment said that secret communication channels still exist between the two countries to convey messages and work on preventing friction and escalation.

Recent developments indicate that the Israeli security establishment is preparing for new possibilities in its relationship with Ankara, while trying to keep communication channels open to avoid escalating tensions into a direct military confrontation.