Long-standing friction between Türkiye and Israel—particularly over Gaza—has intensified after statements from the Israeli side. Speaking on a television program, Israel’s Consul General in New York, Ofir Akunis assessed Israel’s policies toward Gaza and Syria and made pointed remarks about Türkiye’s role in the region.

Explicit Rejection of Turkish Troops in Gaza

Akunis stated unequivocally that Israel would not accept Türkiye’s involvement in any international force planned for Gaza. “There will be no Turkish soldiers in the Gaza Strip,” he said, employing a stark historical comparison to underscore his position. Akunis likened the idea of deploying Turkish troops to the region to bringing the German army to the gates of Israel at the end of World War II, adding that “just as those forces were stopped by British troops, Turkish forces would also be stopped”.

“This Is Not Rhetoric, It Is a Security Issue”

When the program’s host questioned whether the comparison was excessively harsh, Akunis stood by his remarks. He referenced recent statements by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, noting that Israel’s leadership had been likened to Hitler and Nazi Germany. On that basis, Akunis argued that Israel views Turkish forces as hostile.

“We will not allow Turkish forces to set foot on Israeli territory—this includes the Gaza Strip,” he said. Akunis went on to characterize Türkiye’s current political leadership as openly antagonistic, claiming it devotes its efforts to undermining the State of Israel.