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Israel-Turkey Tensions Mounting over Air Bases in Syria

(The War Zone) Howard Altman - Israeli military leaders are concerned about Turkey potentially building up a presence at air bases in Syria, a senior Israel Defense Forces official said. "The establishment of a Turkish Air Force base in Palmyra, Syria, could heighten regional tensions and increase the risk of conflict with Israel. Given Israel's ongoing efforts to prevent hostile military entrenchment in Syria, any significant Turkish military presence, especially in strategic locations like Palmyra, could be perceived as a threat to Israeli security interests." "Recently, Israel has conducted airstrikes against military infrastructure in the region, including the T-4 airbase near Palmyra. While there have been no direct confrontations between Israeli and Turkish forces so far, the situation remains sensitive and requires close monitoring." In addition, the Syrian North Press Agency reported that "Turkish forces have begun constructing a military base inside Menagh Military Airbase in the northern Aleppo countryside in northwestern Syria in recent days. Turkish forces started transporting massive concrete slabs and logistical materials using large transport vehicles into Menagh Military Airbase, approximately six km. south of Azaz, to establish an air defense center." There are additional claims that Turkey is building a base in northwestern Syria near the town of Manbij. Being able to operate from bases in Syria would place Turkish warplanes closer to Israel. If they bring air defenses as well, the combination could create far less permissible skies than the Israel Air Force now enjoys over Syria.
2025-04-01 00:00:00
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