Israel Uses 'Trump Model' in Syria to Halt Turkish Military Expansion Near Idlib
A senior Israeli official revealed on Monday that Turkey understood Israel's message and halted its military move near the Abu al-Duhur airbase in Syria, though it is unclear for how long. The statement came a week after Israel struck the military airfield near Idlib, following failed diplomatic efforts to prevent Ankara's attempt to establish a presence in what Israel considers a "red line." The attack was fully backed by Israel's military leadership, reflecting the most militant stance possible. The official declined to specify what Turkish systems were intended for deployment but emphasized they were significant and unacceptable as they could restrict Israeli freedom of action and set a precedent for Turkish military presence in Syria.
The official assessed that Turkey could become a long-term threat but dismissed the likelihood of immediate war. Israel aims to prevent any substantial military buildup in southern Syria that could threaten its air operations, while maintaining cooperation with local Druze communities in Suwayda and preserving international legitimacy for its actions. Israel continues diplomatic engagement with Damascus, including meetings between Mossad chief David Barnea and Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad, but does not hesitate to use military force when necessary. This approach was described as "quantum diplomacy," inspired by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s strategy of simultaneously engaging and confronting multiple actors.
The official also commented on the evolving Syrian political landscape, noting the fall of the Assad regime but the rise of groups like Al-Qaeda. The main challenge is Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa's efforts to gain international recognition, especially from the U.S. The official criticized U.S. Ambassador Tom Barrett for causing significant damage to Israeli interests. Europe is reportedly facilitating al-Sharaa's rehabilitation to enable the return of Syrian refugees. Despite public support, relations between al-Sharaa and Turkey lack deep trust due to conflicting regional ambitions, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan aspiring to emulate Saladin and opposition leader Abu Mohammad al-Julani holding similar ambitions.
