Israeli Defense Minister Confirms Strike on Syrian Airbase, Accuses Erdogan of Military Provocation

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued an unusual statement on the Sabbath confirming Israel's responsibility for a recent airstrike on the Abu al-Duhur military airport in Idlib province, northern Syria. The strike was carried out based on unequivocal intelligence indicating Turkey's intent to deploy military forces at a facility approximately 70 kilometers from the Turkish border. Gallant sharply criticized Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, saying he was "caught with his hand in the cookie jar and forced to retreat," and warned that Erdogan is dragging Turkey into dangerous adventures in Syria.

The operation was preceded by direct warnings to senior Syrian officials and parallel notifications to relevant U.S. authorities, which were ignored by the Syrian regime. The strike resulted in extensive destruction of runways and hangars at the base. Additionally, a rare phone call between Mossad chief Ronen Gophman and Syria's new Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani reportedly focused on Israeli concerns about Turkey's military presence near the border.

The U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and special envoy to Syria, Thomas (Tom) Barrett, condemned the Israeli strike as an unnecessary escalation that risks regional stability, accusing Israel of political motives ahead of Israeli elections. He also sparked controversy by referring to the Golan Heights as "occupied Syrian territory," a statement that drew sharp criticism in Jerusalem. Gallant rejected these accusations, calling them ignorant and politically motivated, and reaffirmed the U.S. recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights by President Trump in 2019.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed Gallant's stance, emphasizing that Israel will not tolerate Turkish military entrenchment southward threatening Israeli security. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir also vowed to prevent hostile forces from establishing themselves near Israel's borders. In response, the Turkish Ministry of Defense issued a strong statement rejecting Israeli claims and vowed to continue supporting Syria's military capabilities, warning Israel to cease its reckless attacks. Turkish media adopted an aggressive tone, labeling Israel's actions as severe provocations.

Following the strike, Turkey escalated legal measures against Israel, with its Ministry of Justice requesting Interpol to issue a "red notice" for Netanyahu and other Israeli officials on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity. This move follows prior arrest warrants issued in Turkey and aims to advance the case through international legal channels.