How to Stop a Turkey-Israel War | Opinion
Summary
Tensions are rising between Turkey and Israel, two countries with closely operating military forces in Syria, raising concerns about conflict. The U.S. has leverage over Turkey through military sales and partnerships and could use it to encourage Turkey to reduce hostility toward Israel.Key Facts
- Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan made a statement on television criticizing Israel, which Israel’s foreign minister called incitement to genocide.
- Turkish and Israeli forces operate near each other in Syria, effectively sharing a border there.
- There was a reported incident in 2025 where Turkish and Israeli military aircraft came close in Syrian airspace, leading to talks to avoid conflict.
- Turkish President Erdoğan views Israeli policies as a threat to Turkey and has made strong statements about retaking Jerusalem.
- President Donald Trump has a personal rapport with Erdoğan but is advised not to rely solely on that relationship to manage tensions.
- The U.S. is selling over $700 million worth of fighter jet engines to Turkey and considering allowing Turkey back into the F-35 program, measures that could influence Turkey’s actions.
- The U.S. Congress has 15 days to review the engine sale and could use this as leverage to push Turkey to reduce hostility toward Israel.
- Azerbaijan serves as a trusted mediator between Turkey and Israel, having helped ease tensions and set up communication channels between their militaries.
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