Hakan Fidan has accused Israel of using security concerns as a pretext to expand its territorial control, intensifying already strained relations between Turkiye and Israel.
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Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Fidan said Israel’s policies go beyond self-defense, alleging that the government led by Benjamin Netanyahu is pursuing a broader agenda of land acquisition. “Israel is not after its own security. It is after more land,” he stated, adding that security narratives are being used to justify expansion.
At the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged stronger diplomacy as global crises dominate the agenda pic.twitter.com/xFPhqBPlTB
— TRT World (@trtworld) April 18, 2026
Fidan pointed to developments in regions including Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, as well as recent tensions extending toward Lebanon and Syria. He described the situation as a pattern of continued occupation and expansion, calling for an end to such policies.
The Turkish foreign minister emphasized that lasting peace in the region depends on mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the rights of all states. He urged Israel to pursue peaceful coexistence rather than relying on military power.
Relations between Turkiye and Israel have deteriorated significantly since the escalation of conflict following the October 2023 attacks by Hamas and the subsequent war in Gaza. Ankara has been among the most vocal critics of Israel’s actions, while also engaging in diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation alongside other regional players.
Fidan’s remarks come amid a series of sharp exchanges between Ankara and Tel Aviv. Earlier statements by Netanyahu criticizing Turkish leadership prompted strong responses from Turkiye’s foreign ministry, further deepening tensions.
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In recent comments, Fidan also suggested that Israel is increasingly framing Turkiye as a strategic adversary, describing it as a shift in Israeli state policy. The latest remarks underscore growing geopolitical friction and highlight the challenges facing diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region.