Israeli president says no plans for military action against Türkiye

Israel has no intention of launching military action against Türkiye, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said Thursday, addressing concerns raised by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan regarding Israel’s regional ambitions.

Herzog’s statement follows Erdogan’s recent warnings about the potential threat posed by Israel’s actions in Palestine and Lebanon. Turkish Parliament held a closed session meeting about Erdogan’s warnings about Israel recently as well.

Israeli president responds to Erdogan’s concerns

During a meeting with U.S. Jewish groups in Jerusalem, Herzog refuted claims that Israel’s policies could eventually target Türkiye.

“We have never had any plans against Türkiye,” Herzog stated, emphasizing mutual respect between the nations.

The Israeli president highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two countries, stressing the importance of friendship and coexistence.

Erdogan warns of regional ambitions

Last week, Erdogan warned that Israel’s ongoing operations in Palestine and Lebanon could extend to Türkiye.

“Driven by the delusion of a ‘promised land,’ after Palestine and Lebanon, the Israeli government will set its sights on our homeland,” Erdogan said, citing concerns over Israel’s regional actions.

Israeli offensive expands to Lebanon

Israel’s military campaign has intensified in Lebanon, with airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions since late September. The strikes, which have killed over 1,300 people and displaced more than 1.2 million, mark an escalation in cross-border tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

The conflict follows a year of hostilities linked to Israel’s broader offensive in Gaza, where over 42,000 Palestinians have been killed since October last year.

Regional stability at risk

Amid fears of a broader regional conflict, Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has sparked further controversy with remarks about expanding Israel’s borders, reigniting concerns about the “Greater Israel” concept.

Smotrich’s comments, including references to Jerusalem extending to Damascus, have fueled debate about Israel’s long-term goals.