Ex-Mossad official: Turkey unlikely to risk military clash with Israel despite Erdogan's ambitions

Former Mossad counterterrorism division head Oded Eilam has stated that a military clash between Israel and Turkey is highly unlikely, despite Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ambition for regional expansion. In an interview with 103FM, Eilam emphasized that neither side is interested in a military confrontation at the moment.

He attributed this to Erdogan's strategy of gradual annexation across various regions, including Libya, Somalia, Africa, and Gaza. Eilam noted that Erdogan is not interested in a confrontation with Israel, a significant regional power, and thus the chances of a military clash are extremely slim, almost non-existent. He praised Israel for drawing a clear line with Turkey, acknowledging the Turkish government's attempt to disrupt Israeli Air Force flights to Iran.

Eilam also highlighted Erdogan's strong naval force, which could pose a threat to Europe, and his control over the refugee gateway, for which Turkey receives $200 million to $250 million annually. This arrangement is beneficial for both Europe and the United States. Finally, Eilam criticized US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack for the inflammatory rhetoric he often uses, urging caution against such statements.