Former prime minister calls for urgent action against Ankara while demanding national unity at home.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett delivered a pointed address Tuesday at the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations in Jerusalem, outlining what he described as escalating regional threats alongside internal challenges facing Israel.
Focusing on Turkey, Bennett declared that “a new Turkish threat is emerging” and warned that “Turkey is the new Iran.” He characterized Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as a “sophisticated and dangerous adversary” seeking to encircle Israel.
Bennett argued that Turkey and Qatar are strengthening Islamist networks in Syria, Gaza, and beyond. He warned of what he described as an emerging “choke ring” around Israel.
According to Bennett, Ankara is attempting to influence regional dynamics, including relations involving Saudi Arabia, while he also referenced broader Sunni alliances and concerns about nuclear capabilities in Pakistan.
He emphasized that Israel must address threats from both Iran and Turkey simultaneously, describing the evolving landscape as complex and multi-front.
Call for National Unity
Turning to domestic issues, Bennett stressed the importance of unity within Israel.
“A divided Israel will not survive,” he said, arguing that political fragmentation weakens the country at a critical moment.
While not naming individuals directly, Bennett said that after decades in power and following what he described as the most severe disaster in Israel’s history, leadership accountability is essential. “Israel is greater than any one person,” he stated.
He concluded by calling for “Zionist unity” and a new chapter under different leadership.
Broader Implications
Bennett’s remarks highlight shifting regional alliances and the ongoing debate within Israel about security strategy and political direction.
As tensions remain high across multiple fronts, his speech underscored both external pressures and internal divisions shaping Israel’s current moment.
