Turkey's Erdoğan drives Ankara into a stronger regional role, sparking rivalry with Israel
Under President Erdoğan, Turkey has become a more influential Middle East actor and a growing rival to Israel, while economic ties with Israel remain at zero.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has steered Turkey toward a more assertive role in the Middle East, positioning it as a rival to Israel whose economic, commercial and aviation ties have been effectively halted since May 2024. Ankara has intensified support for Syria, providing security assistance and targeting a $5 billion trade goal within two years, while Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan blames Israeli actions for undermining joint counter-terrorism efforts.
Turkey’s diplomatic outreach extends to Washington, where it participates in the Gaza Peace Council and benefits from close ties with Donald Trump, highlighted by the NATO summit held in Ankara. Cooperation with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia further cements its expanding influence. These developments sharpen Turkey’s rivalry with Israel amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, where Israeli attacks continue to cause civilian casualties.
Why it matters
Turkey's growing influence reshapes Middle East power dynamics and heightens tensions with Israel.
How this story developed
- Sep 3 Greece protests Turkey's maritime park claims, seeks diplomatic dialogue amid Aegean tensions
- Sep 6 Turkey reiterated its long‑standing claims over continental shelves.
- Sep 13 The Greek prime minister publicly called for dialogue with Turkey while maintaining a formal protest over Turkey’s maritime park claims.
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