Turkish Deputy PM Criticizes Netanyahu Government as Global Security Threat Amid Regional Tensions

Turkish Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan sharply criticized the Netanyahu government on July 10, 2026, labeling it a burden on Israel, the region, and international security. Fidan accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his political allies of relying on an external enemy as Israel approaches elections. He warned that Israel’s policies threaten regional stability, particularly progress made in Syria, questioning whether Israel desires a stable and strong Syrian government. When asked if Israel aims to destabilize the new Damascus administration, Fidan responded affirmatively based on Israel’s historical patterns in the region.

Fidan expressed cautious optimism about the ceasefire with Iran despite former U.S. President Donald Trump’s declaration that the ceasefire had ended. He described recent Iranian actions as retaliatory and stemming from communication failures rather than deliberate agreement collapse. A phone conversation with his Iranian counterpart helped clarify the root issues. Fidan emphasized both sides’ genuine interest in maintaining the ceasefire and advancing a peace agreement but noted that real progress requires addressing Iran’s proxies such as Hezbollah and Hamas. He compared Iran’s security doctrine of maintaining proxies to Israel’s regional military presence, suggesting a new mutual security understanding could lead to de-escalation.

To facilitate regional solutions, Turkey has formed a working group with Pakistan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, aiming to accelerate initiatives that formal institutions like the Arab League struggle to advance due to bureaucratic rigidity. On a positive note for Turkey’s defense industry, the U.S. Congress allowed the export of General Electric F110 engines for Turkey’s advanced KAAN fighter jets to proceed without delay, in a deal valued over $700 million.

Fidan also warned of the gradual geographic and tactical expansion of the war in Ukraine, cautioning against further escalation in the Black Sea. He highlighted Ankara’s unique position due to its continuous contacts with all parties involved, enabling Turkey to understand the conflicts deeply and contribute to conflict resolution efforts.