Netanyahu Slammed by Former Israeli PM Over Tensions With Turkey

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak has strongly criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over his handling of rising tensions with Turkey, describing the move as “reckless and foolish” and accusing him of pursuing political interests.

In a post on X on Wednesday (August 19), Barak said Netanyahu was deliberately escalating tensions with Turkey ahead of elections to create a sense of insecurity among the public. He argued that Ankara is not Iran or Bashar al-Assad’s Syria and that Israel has no problem with Turkey that cannot be resolved.

Barak said strategic issues with Turkey could be managed through discreet communication and coordination with the United States. Instead, he accused Netanyahu of having “completely lost control” and placing his political survival above Israel’s security.

He also said Netanyahu’s conduct reflected the actions of a “desperate gambler” following what he described as a complete failure to achieve war objectives and the prospect of political defeat.

Meanwhile, Israeli opposition leader Yair Golan described Israel’s recent strikes in Syria as provocative and dangerous. He warned that the attacks were bringing Israel closer to a confrontation with Turkey and further damaging relations with key allies, particularly the United States.

Golan accused Netanyahu of repeatedly using military force for political purposes and said the consequences were being borne by Israel, especially in terms of national security.