Türkiye warning at Israel conference! 'We must be prepared' confession: 'Ring of fire'

MİLLİYET.COM.TR / A remarkable admission came from Israel that the balances may change in the power struggle extending from the Middle East to the Eastern Mediterranean. While listing the scenarios for the future of the region, retired Brigadier General Erez Winner, President of the Israel Defense and Security Forum, pointed out Turkey's increasing weight and gave a critical warning to his country.

Winner made evaluations about the future of the regional power struggle at the Diplomatic Conference organized by Tel Aviv-based The Jerusalem Post.

'MUST BE CONSIDERED'

The prominent topic in Winner's statements was the possibility of expanding Turkey's regional influence. Evaluating Ankara's increasing weight in different geographies, the retired brigadier general argued that Israel should take into account the changing balance of power.

'THE RING OF FIRE IS FAST WINDING'

Claiming that the threat perception in the region has changed, Winner claimed that Iran has lost its influence in the region, but a new power center can take shape under the leadership of Turkey.

Winner said, "The threat to Israel should no longer be expected from Iran, but from Türkiye. The ring of fire that emerged under the leadership of Ankara is rapidly surrounding Tel Aviv."

Drawing attention to Turkey's role in the regional equation with this assessment, Winner argued that Israel should take into account not only current threats but also the balance of power that may arise in the future.

'WE SHOULD BE PREPARED'

Pointing out that Turkey has very good bilateral relations in the global arena and is an actor whose voice is listened to, Winner said, "If Ankara manages to establish itself as the leading power of a possible Muslim bloc (by affecting regions ranging from North Africa and Libya to Syria and Gaza), it will increase its geopolitical weight. Israel should be prepared for this."

'IT MAY CREATE A GREAT RISK'

In her speech, Winner argued that Israel should reduce its dependence on foreign sources in the production of ammunition and military equipment in the face of these developments and said, "Depending on external sources in the event of a long-term conflict may pose a great risk. For this reason, Israel must ensure self-sufficiency in the defense industry." Winner's call showed that concerns about the regional balance of power are being addressed together with Israel's defense production and procurement policies.

'IT MAY HAVE CRITICAL CONSEQUENCES'

Claiming in her speech that Turkey's increased regional influence could lead to more pressure in the Aegean for Tel Aviv and Athens, Winner stated that Ankara is moving forward determinedly in supporting doctrines such as the "Blue Homeland".

Winner said, "Türkiye resolutely expresses its opinions everywhere, without taking a step back regarding its rights in the seas. The new balance of power that may emerge after Ankara's statements may have critical consequences for Israel."

'INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY AGAINST TURKEY'