Behind-the-scenes contacts between Israel and Turkey are underway in an effort to prevent further escalation and a potential military confrontation in Syria, as relations between the two countries come under strain following recent Israeli strikes.
According to an Israeli security source cited by Israeli broadcaster Kan, Israel is not seeking a confrontation with Ankara, and “secret channels” of communication are operating between the two sides. Through these channels, messages are being exchanged with the aim of preventing dangerous incidents and uncontrolled escalation.
However, the same source indicated that Israeli restraint has its limits. “When the messages are not effective, Israel is forced to act,” the source said.
Israel’s “red lines”
According to the Israeli side, specific “red lines” have been established regarding the expansion of Turkey’s military presence in Syria.
Israel is particularly concerned about the potential deployment of Turkish air defence systems, drones and missile systems, which, according to Tel Aviv’s assessment, could restrict the Israeli Air Force’s freedom of operation in Syrian airspace.
The new information comes just days after an Israeli strike on the Abu al-Duhur airbase in northwestern Syria, a facility that Ankara was reportedly considering as part of its military cooperation with Damascus.
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