Retired General Effi Eitam Sees No Immediate Military Clash Between Israel and Turkey

Retired Brigadier General Effi Eitam, former commander of the Galil Brigade and Israeli government minister, stated in a 103fm radio interview that despite harsh rhetoric and competition for influence in Syria, Israel and Turkey are unlikely to engage in direct military conflict in the near future. He explained that both sides have established clear boundaries, and Ankara is aware of the constraints imposed by its NATO membership. Eitam also noted Syria's clear interest in avoiding a full-scale war on its territory.

Eitam highlighted Israel's significant achievements in its campaigns against Hamas, Hezbollah, and operations in Syria, emphasizing that the long-term implications of these successes will become clearer over time. He expressed strong support for Benjamin Netanyahu as prime minister ahead of upcoming elections, arguing that despite past failures, Netanyahu remains the most rational choice given Israel's current security challenges.

According to Eitam, Israel is still engaged in a direct conflict with the Iranian regime, which he insists must be toppled to prevent a nuclear threat. He differentiated this from proxy conflicts involving Hezbollah and Hamas, describing the Iranian regime as a unique existential threat. Eitam compared the situation to World War II, questioning what would have happened if Churchill had been removed from office during the war.

Eitam also criticized the Likud party's primary election results, particularly the exclusion of many current war commanders and fighters from the party list. He pointed out that Ofir Winter fills a legitimate role due to this absence but lamented that the party's security representation is weak, with Miri Regev being the most senior security figure. He called the party's candidate selection a disgrace and shame.