Israel Accuses Turkey of Iranian-Style Military Buildup in Syria

Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, accused Turkey of following an "Iranian model" by expanding its military presence in Syria during a UN Security Council meeting on Thursday. Danon presented a map illustrating Turkey's significant military footprint in Syria, stating it controls approximately 5% of Syrian territory, compared to Israel's 0.1%. He warned that Israel would not permit Syrian territory to be used as a base for threats against the Jewish state.

Danon asserted that Turkey is strengthening its military implantation, establishing bases, and extending its influence in Syria, drawing parallels to Iran's use of proxies. He questioned the international community's commitment to Syrian sovereignty, suggesting a double standard in how Israel's actions are treated versus Turkey's. The ambassador specifically highlighted concerns over Turkey's alleged intentions to control the Abu al-Duhur airbase, which Israel considers a "red line."

Danon stated that Israel had conveyed its concerns about the airbase to Syrian authorities, and when ignored, the message was delivered "in another way," without further elaboration. He directly addressed the Syrian ambassador, accusing the Security Council of applying "double standards" by condemning Israel's defensive actions while remaining silent on Turkey's military expansion in Syria.