Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has taken a clear swipe at Turkey and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, declaring, “The Ottoman Empire will not be revived any time soon.” The statement, delivered during an official Knesset address, carries strong geopolitical overtones and is widely interpreted as a rebuke of Ankara’s neo-Ottoman ambitions.
Netanyahu made the comment while welcoming Argentine President Javier Milei to Israel. “Twelve thousand kilometres separate Buenos Aires from Jerusalem,” Netanyahu said. “But that great distance is overcome by the closeness of our hearts.”
The remark about the Ottoman Empire was seen as a direct reference to Turkish foreign policy and Erdoğan’s efforts to expand influence across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. Analysts suggest the Israeli leader’s tone signals deepening concern over Turkey’s growing regional assertiveness.
Praise for Milei and strong rhetoric on conflict
Netanyahu also used the occasion to praise President Milei as a “true friend of Israel,” commending his unwavering support amid the ongoing conflict.
“For the last 20 months, we have been fighting against human monsters who kidnapped and beheaded innocent people on 7 October,” Netanyahu said. “You have spoken with absolute clarity: you stand with us in the fight against the forces of darkness.”
He concluded his speech by applauding Milei’s leadership style, calling it “unique, authentic, and decisive,” and thanking him for standing with Israel from the beginning of his term.
The speech underscores a growing strategic alliance between Israel and Argentina, while sharpening diplomatic tensions with Turkey at a time of heightened regional instability.
Also read: “Take us to Jerusalem”-Erdoğan: “Patience brings victory”
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