New Delhi: Former Israeli Ambassador to Turkey, Dr. Alon Liel, has shared insights on Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans potential actions in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Speaking on Radio North 104.5 FM, Dr. Liel highlighted Erdogans possible strategies to support Palestinians.Erdogans threats, indirect supportDr. Liel noted Erdogans threats to increase military assistance to Palestinians, specifically Hamas and those in the West Bank. He mentioned that Erdogan has previously attempted to aid these groups by setting up a headquarters in Turkey for military operations, smuggling weapons, and transferring funds for weapon purchases.Finding ways to transfer moneyDr. Liel believes that Erdogans support will likely be indirect, involving financial aid and smuggling operations. He has already sent casualties to hospitals in Turkey and is finding ways to transfer money, he explained. Erdogans improved relations with Egypt might facilitate smuggling activities across the Egyptian border into the West Bank and Jerusalem.Lebanon as a flashpointRegarding Lebanon, Dr. Liel warned that Erdogan could see Israeli entry into Lebanon as a significant threat and might send Turkish forces in response. He has previously sent destroyers and combat ships to Lebanons territorial waters, Dr. Liel remarked, emphasizing the seriousness of Erdogans threats.Diplomatic implicationsDr. Liel concluded by criticizing the current diplomatic stance, suggesting that Israels inability to respond strongly to Erdogans statements allows the Turkish president to exploit the situation. In a proper diplomatic position, we would sever relations with him. However, our current diplomatic weakness means we cannot make him pay a price for his statements, he stated.
