Ankara, June 20: As the Israel-Iran war intensifies, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to bolster Turkiye’s deterrence capabilities by ramping up production of medium- and long-range missiles.
Erdogan aims to develop a defense capacity so strong that no country would dare threaten Turkiye. Despite strained relations with Israel, analysts do not foresee the conflict spreading to Turkiye, a NATO member, but view Erdogan’s move as part of a potential regional arms race triggered by the ongoing war.
Turkiye’s defense industry has made significant progress in drones, fighter jets, armored vehicles, and naval vessels, though its air power and missile defense remain weaker compared to Israel and the US.
The ongoing conflict highlights the critical importance of air superiority, prompting Turkiye to strengthen its missile stockpiles. Erdogan has also sought to mediate nuclear negotiations, holding talks with leaders including US President Donald Trump and Iranian officials.
Turkiye faces concerns over energy supply disruptions and refugee flows due to its reliance on Iranian energy imports and shared border with Iran.
Erdogan has strongly criticized Israel’s strikes, supporting Iran’s right to self-defense amid nuclear talks, reflecting deteriorated Turkey-Israel relations since the 2023 Gaza war and tensions in Syria.
Despite tensions, Turkey and Israel established a “de-escalation mechanism” to prevent military clashes in Syria, though hostile rhetoric continues. Israel dismissed Erdogan’s criticisms, accusing him of imperial ambitions.
Analysts suggest such statements serve domestic political aims amid rising anti-Israel sentiment in Turkey. Overall, both sides seem cautious to avoid direct conflict, even as regional military dynamics shift. (AP)
