Bennett Targets Türkiye, Calls It “New Iran”

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett delivered sharp criticism of Türkiye and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during a speech in Jerusalem, warning that Ankara’s growing regional footprint poses a serious security challenge for Israel.

“Türkiye Is the New Iran”

Speaking at the American-Jewish Organizations Conference in Jerusalem, Bennett said Türkiye and Qatar have expanded their influence in Syria and Gaza and are seeking broader regional leverage.

“A new Turkish threat is emerging,” Bennett said. “I want to be very clear. Türkiye and Qatar have gained influence in Syria, in other places, and are seeking influence across the region.”

He went further, declaring: “Türkiye is the new Iran. Erdoğan is sophisticated, dangerous and aims to encircle Israel. We cannot close our eyes again.”

Bennett argued that Israel must recognize what he described as Ankara’s strategic ambitions and respond accordingly.

Allegations of Regional Realignment

Bennett claimed that Türkiye is attempting to shift regional alliances against Israel. He alleged that Ankara is working to turn Saudi Arabia against Israel and to establish what he described as a hostile Sunni axis that would include nuclear-armed Pakistan.

According to Bennett, Israel must confront simultaneous threats originating from Tehran and Ankara, suggesting that policymakers should treat both as strategic challenges requiring coordinated responses.

Criticism of Israeli Leadership

In addition to his regional warnings, Bennett directed criticism toward Israel’s current political leadership. He described the country as deeply divided and argued that figures responsible for past crises should not remain in power.

His remarks come at a time of heightened regional tensions, as Israel navigates complex security dynamics involving Iran, Gaza and shifting alliances across the Middle East.

Bennett’s comments are likely to draw strong reactions from Ankara, which has repeatedly rejected Israeli accusations and defended its regional policies as aligned with international law and regional stability.