Türkiye confirms technical contacts with Israel in Syria, rules out conflict

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed Wednesday that Türkiye maintains technical contacts with Israel in Syria to prevent military misunderstandings and also ruled out any intention of engaging in conflict with any country, including Israel.

During a live broadcast on CNN Turk, Fidan addressed speculation about indirect or direct talks with Israel, stating, “I can say that there are technical contacts between combatant elements (with Israel) to prevent misunderstandings,” adding that these contacts are conducted directly when needed.

Coordination mechanism with Israel in Syria

Fidan explained that military operations in Syria necessitate a deconfliction mechanism due to multiple foreign actors operating in the same airspace. “While conducting operations—whether by air or otherwise—a deconfliction mechanism is essential with other actors like the U.S., Russia, Iran, and now Israel,” he said.

According to Middle East Eye, two Western officials confirmed that Türkiye and Israel have initiated discussions to establish a deconfliction line in Syria following recent Israeli airstrikes on Syrian airbases, including T4 in Homs.

Meanwhile, two Western sources indicated that there has been progress in the talks. One source familiar with the situation noted that negotiations on a Syria deconfliction line began immediately after the Israeli airstrikes.

“Both Israeli and Turkish officials issued matching statements the same day, signaling they do not seek conflict in Syria,” the source said, describing the messaging as “coordinated.”

Türkiye had reportedly planned to inspect T4 for possible reconstruction and deploy surveillance systems, drones, and Hisar-type air defense units. The temporary deployment of Russian-made S-400s is also under consideration.

Israel ‘wants to avoid’ conflict with Türkiye

Following a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that Israel “wants to avoid” any conflict with Türkiye and expressed concern over reports that Türkiye and Syria may sign a joint defense agreement involving Turkish deployment to the T4 airbase.

Fidan dismissed any claims of aggressive intentions, reaffirming: “As Türkiye, we have no intention of engaging in conflict with any country in Syria, including Israel.”

He criticized Israel’s regional strategy, saying it is unacceptable for Israel to provoke conflict in Syria by pursuing expansionist ambitions. “Since Assad’s fall, Israel has systematically dismantled Syria’s military infrastructure to leave nothing for the next government,” he said.

Assad, who had ruled Syria for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on Dec. 8, ending the Baath Party’s control of the country after more than six decades in power.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led anti-regime forces to oust Assad, was declared president of a transitional government on Jan. 29.

‘We will not remain bystanders’

Responding to questions about deeper military involvement in Syria, Fidan expressed confidence in Türkiye’s capacity and vision. “Syria is in a position to overcome many of its problems with Türkiye’s support. First, we have the intention, then the capacity, and then the vision,” he stated.

“We do not openly attack any country that does not attack us,” Fidan concluded. “But if instability emerges in a neighboring country that threatens us, we will not remain bystanders.”