Barrack warns of dangerous Israel-Turkey escalation after strike on Abu al-Duhur

Barrack warned of the repercussions of Israel’s recent attack on Abu al-Duhur airbase in Idlib, northwestern Syria, near the Turkish border, saying that uncoordinated air movements in the area could lead to a dangerous escalation.

Speaking during a podcast with Mario Nawfal on YouTube, Barrack said Israel may have been seeking to provoke Turkey through the attacks that took place in northern Syria on August 18, describing the situation as “a dangerous game,” according to Bloomberg.

In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Barrack said Turkish forces were unaware that Israeli aircraft were flying toward the Syrian base or what their objective was. This could have prompted Turkey to deploy its own aircraft, believing it was under attack. He expressed relief that no casualties were reported and that the situation did not escalate, but stressed that the absence of reliable communication channels could make the situation much worse and require urgent change.

He referred to Turkey’s downing of a Russian aircraft more than a decade ago, warning that flying aircraft near the border without prior notification or an agreement could have dangerous consequences.

Barrack stressed that the U.S. priority is to help ease tensions between Ankara and Jerusalem and prevent any unintended escalation. He called on all sides to work patiently toward a lasting solution, saying President Trump’s plan provides a viable path that could succeed if given the necessary space and support.

Barrack added, “it’s a dangerous game, pushing aircraft along the border, without notification and without agreement.” 

A-H 

ANHA