The End of the 'Shiite Axis' and the Beginning of the 'Sunni Alliance': The New Danger Threatening Israel
The article analyzes Turkey's growing influence in Syria and the concern over a direct confrontation with Israel. Experts present differing views: some warn of escalation, while others argue that Israel is preparing the ground for a conflict. All agree that Syria is becoming the central arena for the meeting of interests.
The article analyzes Turkey's strengthening in Syria and Israel's concern over a direct clash with Ankara, presenting the positions of three experts. Ben Shabat says Turkey is exploiting changes in the Middle East to establish itself as a leading regional power, pointing to the 'Mecca Joint Defense Agreement' between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan as evidence of a rising Sunni axis. He stresses that Turkey is not Iran, as it allows Azerbaijani oil to flow to Israel and does not block airspace. Citrinowicz warns that a direct confrontation with Ankara would be a 'completely different strategic level' and suggests establishing a direct communication channel with Turkey. He also warns of a self-fulfilling prophecy where Israeli activity would cause Turkey to view Israel as a threat. Alush claims Israel has prepared the ground for escalation, including political discourse portraying al-Sharaa as an enemy, and that electoral pressure is influencing Netanyahu. All three agree that Syria is becoming the central arena for the meeting of interests.