Statements from Israeli officials or government documents, reported by major news agencies

Turkey Threatens to Shoot Down Israeli Planes Over Kurdish Support, Following Turkish General Staff Orders

Dec 14, 2024, 10:42 PM

Turkey has signaled its readiness to engage militarily against the Israeli Air Force in Syrian airspace if Israel provides support to Kurdish forces. Reports indicate that the Turkish General Staff has received orders to shoot down Israeli aircraft should they assist the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in Syria. The Syrian Kurds have reportedly requested Israeli assistance, including air support, in their fight against pro-Turkish factions. Turkish media outlets have emphasized the seriousness of this situation, suggesting that Turkey perceives a potential conflict with Israel if such support is rendered. The geopolitical implications of this situation are significant, with Turkey expressing concerns about maintaining a strong defensive posture in the region, particularly in light of increased American military presence in Kurdish areas.