Erdogan's Reporter in Israel Linked to Terror Groups, Operates Freely

A reporter for Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency, identified as Faruk Hender, has been operating freely within Israel, reporting from various locations including Ashdod and Jerusalem. Hender's past includes work for the publication of the terrorist organization IBAD, which claimed responsibility for deadly bombings in Istanbul in 2003. Prior to his role in Israel, Hender interviewed the Taliban spokesperson, an encounter allegedly coordinated by Iranian intelligence to foster ties between the Taliban and Islamist factions in Turkey. Hender also underwent government training and received his position at Anadolu Agency shortly after this meeting. He previously served as a correspondent in Lebanon.

This report, citing research from the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs (JCAP), highlights concerns about Turkey's alleged "insidious activity" within Israel. The article suggests that Turkey, under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is deepening its influence, not only through media but also potentially through other means. One such instance cited involves the seizure of weapons by Israeli police in East Jerusalem, destined for criminal elements and terrorist organizations. Three of these weapons were reportedly manufactured by Atak, a firearms company based in Istanbul, Turkey.