Israel and Turkey Compete for Influence in Syria Amid Escalating Tensions
April 29, 2025
Recent remarks from former President Trump indicate a recognition of Turkey as a balancing power in the region, which could limit Israel's military operations in Syria.
On April 9, 2025, military officials from Israel and Turkey convened in Azerbaijan to discuss establishing a 'deconfliction channel' aimed at preventing direct confrontations in Syria.
Tensions have escalated further as Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned Israeli military actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.
Experts suggest that while a direct conflict between Turkey and Israel is unlikely, the risk of proxy wars in Syria remains, potentially worsening the country's fragmentation.
The ongoing conflict in Syria has intensified as Israel and Turkey compete for influence following the exile of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024.
The Trump administration is working to reduce hostilities between Turkey and Israel, aiming for a stable environment in Syria as U.S. troops plan to withdraw by the end of 2025.
An Israeli government report raises concerns that Sunni Islamist authorities in Syria may pose a greater threat than the Assad regime, particularly with Turkey's increasing influence in a post-Ba'ath Syria.
During a meeting on April 7, 2025, Trump praised Turkey's role in the collapse of the Assad regime and advised Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to adopt a more reasonable approach regarding Turkey's influence.
Turkey advocates for a unified Syrian state aligned with its interests, while Israel prefers a fragmented Syria to reduce security threats.
Despite these discussions, no concrete agreements were reached, as reported by both the Turkish Defense Ministry and the Israeli Prime Minister's office.
Turkey is looking to expand its military presence in northern Syria, seeking defense agreements and establishing military bases.
In response to the evolving situation, Israel has conducted airstrikes and military incursions in southern Syria to assert its dominance and is lobbying the U.S. to maintain a Russian military presence as a counter to Turkish influence.
Summary based on 2 sources