Turkey FM: Israel to designate Turkey as new Enemy?

ANKARA — In a sharp critique of Israel’s regional policy, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned on Monday that Israel may be preparing to designate Türkiye as its next primary adversary.

Speaking during an interview with Anadolu Agency’s Editor's Desk on April 13, 2026, Fidan argued that the Israeli government’s survival is intrinsically linked to maintaining a state of perpetual conflict. According to the Foreign Minister, once the current focus on Iran diminishes, Israel is likely to pivot its rhetoric and military posture toward Ankara.

"Israel cannot sustain itself without an enemy," Fidan stated. "Therefore, it may seek to designate Türkiye as a new adversary after Iran."

A Strategy of "Enemy-Making"

Fidan’s comments suggest that Ankara views Israel's geopolitical maneuvers not as defensive measures, but as a systematic need to identify external threats to justify internal policies and territorial ambitions. He emphasized that as long as the current leadership in Israel remains in power, the region will remain trapped in a cycle of "enemy-making."

The Foreign Minister also pointed to Israel's military activities in Syria as a "major problem area" and a direct risk to Turkish national security. He noted that while Israel's current focus is occupied by its confrontation with Iran, this restraint is unlikely to last, potentially leading to increased friction along Türkiye's southern borders.

Calls for a Regional Security Pact

Amidst these rising tensions, Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s call for a comprehensive Middle East security framework. He urged regional nations to commit to a pact based on:

Mutual respect for sovereignty.

Territorial integrity.

Collective security.

This proposal comes as Türkiye continues to lead international efforts to hold Israel accountable, including its support for the genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Key Takeaways

New Adversary: FM Hakan Fidan warns that Israel may officially view Türkiye as its next regional rival following the conflict with Iran.

Political Survival: The Turkish government claims Israel’s current administration relies on constant conflict and "enemy-making" to stay in power.

Syrian Risks: Ankara identifies Israeli strikes in Syria as a "serious risk" that could destabilize Turkish border security.

Diplomatic Solution: Türkiye is pushing for a formal regional security pact to prevent further expansion of Middle Eastern conflicts.

Strained Relations: The statement marks a further deterioration in ties between the two nations, which have been at odds over the war in Gaza and regional influence.