Israel on the brink of a dangerous period — expert
Columnist Avi Benayahu warns in a Maariv op-ed that Israel is entering a period of serious external and internal challenges. Among the threats are Turkey's growing presence in Syria, the approaching election campaign, and the risk of new domestic crises. The recent Israeli Air Force strike in Idlib is seen as a signal to Ankara.
Columnist Avi Benayahu warns in a Maariv op-ed that Israel is entering a period of serious external and internal challenges. He cites Turkey's growing presence in Syria as a major threat, as Ankara seeks to fill the void left by Iran's weakening. Benayahu views the recent Israeli Air Force strike near Idlib as a direct signal to Turkey — Jerusalem will not allow the deployment of Turkish air defense systems in Syria. The situation is complicated by Trump's relationship with Erdogan and Turkey's NATO membership. Domestically, after the Likud primaries, Netanyahu has strengthened his position, but a tough election campaign lies ahead. Benayahu suggests the prime minister may consider retiring from politics. Additional points of tension include the Temple Mount ahead of Sukkot and the crisis at Ben Gurion Airport, where disruptions affected tens of thousands of passengers. The article is an analytical overview based on one expert's opinion, without counterarguments or alternative viewpoints.