Israel forming coalition against Turkey

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the formation of a regional anti-Turkish coalition, which includes Cyprus and Greece alongside Israel, to counter Turkey's ambitions.

On the eve of the announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a joint meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides. Following the meeting, he made strong statements directed at Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, outlining the contours of an emerging regional coalition aimed against Ankara, as reported by the Israeli newspaper Maariv.

The meeting took place against the backdrop of the Israeli cabinet's decision to establish a state commission of inquiry to investigate the causes of the October 7 events. Subsequently, a joint press conference was held at Jerusalem's King David Hotel, Tasnim reported.

"Our alliance and partnership will prevail, overcome this chaos, and create opportunities for growth and development. Whoever thinks of restoring their empire, I say this will not happen. We will defend ourselves and secure peace through strength," Benjamin Netanyahu said.

The Israeli PM's statement was directly addressed to the Turkish leader, Maariv reported. Netanyahu also mentioned he would discuss this partnership during his upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.

Simultaneously, the Israeli PM assured that he does not seek direct confrontation with Turkey.

The Hamas attack against Israel, known as Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, began on October 7, 2023. Palestinian armed groups infiltrated Israeli territory from Gaza, breaching the border barrier and entering nearby Israeli communities and military installations. In the early morning, at least 3,000 rockets were fired from Gaza into Israel, approximately 3,000 militants infiltrated Israeli territory. About 1,200 Israelis were killed, and a further 251 were taken hostage.