Türkiye blocks Israel from participating in NATO exercise

Türkiye has blocked Israel’s participation in NATO’s annual “Resilience and Emergency Preparedness” exercise, according to report from Israeli media outlet Yedioth Ahronoth.

Türkiye exercises veto power over Israel’s NATO participation

Israeli diplomats reportedly met with NATO’s exercise coordination team and the Bulgarian delegation to the alliance two weeks ago. While there was support for Israel’s participation, NATO decisions require consensus, and Türkiye’s opposition could prevent Israel from taking part.

A senior Israeli official stated that “Türkiye is using its veto as a political tool. This stance harms regional cooperation and the alliance’s ability to address global challenges.”

Ongoing tensions between Türkiye and Israel

Since the start of the Gaza conflict, Türkiye has opposed NATO’s cooperation with Israel.

Previously, Ankara had reportedly attempted to block Israel’s observer status in NATO but lifted its objections following diplomatic reconciliation.

Türkiye has vetoed all NATO engagements with Israel, including meetings and joint exercises. During the NATO summit last July, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that “NATO cannot continue its partnership with the Israeli government.”

At the time, then-Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz called on NATO to expel Türkiye.