Speaking on March 24, 2025, Gideon Saar tackled concerns over Türkiye’s growing influence in Syria, stating, “We do not want a confrontation with Türkiye in Syria or elsewhere.” The comment, made during a joint briefing with Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, reflects Israel’s cautious stance as tensions simmer in the post-Assad Syrian landscape. Analysts see this as an effort to avoid escalation with Ankara, a key player in northern Syria.

EU-Israel Strategic Partnership

Saar underscored the European Union’s role as Israel’s top trading partner, emphasizing shared values and interests despite occasional differences. “Israel is a strategic asset for the EU,” he argued, framing Israel’s regional battles—against Iran, the Houthis, Hamas, and Hezbollah—as a defense of Western civilization. The remarks align with Israel’s push to strengthen ties with Europe amid shifting Middle East dynamics.

Gaza Ceasefire and Humanitarian Stance

Saar confirmed Israel’s acceptance of a ceasefire proposal for Gaza from U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, noting Hamas rejected it. He claimed the war could end “tomorrow” if Israeli hostages were freed, Gaza demilitarized, and Hamas and Islamic Jihad forces withdrew. On humanitarian aid, Saar defended Israel’s restrictions, alleging Hamas exploits assistance, while promising a new aid distribution system without elaborating.

Regional Security and U.S. Talks

Asked about potential U.S. discussions on Israel fully occupying Gaza, Saar said no decision has been finalized by the government. His comments come as Israel balances its military operations with diplomatic pressures, including from Washington, which has urged restraint. Posts on X suggest mixed reactions, with some praising Saar’s diplomacy and others questioning Israel’s long-term Gaza strategy.

Background: Israel-Türkiye relations have been strained since the Syrian civil war intensified, with Türkiye bolstering its military presence in northern Syria after Assad’s fall in December 2024. Israel, focused on countering Iran-backed threats, has conducted airstrikes in Syria, raising concerns about unintended clashes with Turkish forces. Saar’s statement follows a January 2025 Israeli government report warning of Türkiye as a potential regional threat, though both nations, as U.S. allies, have incentives to avoid direct conflict, per a Middle East Eye analysis. Meanwhile, Israel’s war in Gaza, ongoing since October 2023, has drawn global scrutiny over humanitarian impacts and ceasefire efforts.