In a surprising turn of events, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has taken a strong anti-Israel stance, marking a departure from the previously steady rapprochement between the two countries. An expert on Turkey, Dr. Eitan Hai HaCohen Yanorjak, sheds light on the reasons behind Erdogan's change in rhetoric and his support for Hamas, which has strained ties between Turkey and Israel.

According to Dr. Yanorjak, Erdogan's shift can be attributed to internal political challenges he is currently facing in Turkey. As the country gears up for local government elections at the end of March, Erdogan's victory in Istanbul and Ankara becomes crucial, as it would grant him access to funds from the state treasury to finance his party activities. Furthermore, the ongoing conflict in Gaza provides Erdogan with an opportunity to appeal to voters by playing up solidarity with the Palestinian cause and gaining public support.

Addressing the recent reports of Turkey arresting alleged Mossad collaborators, Dr. Yanorjak explains that this phenomenon has been ongoing for more than three years. Turkish authorities periodically announce the arrest of individuals claimed to have ties with the Israeli intelligence agency, Mossad. This adds to Erdogan's narrative of standing against Israel and further strengthens his position among his supporters.

When questioned about the seemingly disproportionate focus on Israel amid local issues such as property taxes and education, Dr. Yanorjak highlights the interconnected nature of local and state elections in Turkey. Winning in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara not only bolsters Erdogan's position within Turkey but also helps to establish his influence on the global stage. Additionally, a victory in Istanbul would prevent a potential mayoral candidate from emerging as a formidable opponent to Erdogan in future national elections.

Concerning the upcoming elections, Dr. Yanorjak acknowledges that they are generally considered free. However, he points out that Erdogan utilizes the entire infrastructure of the Turkish state to his advantage, limiting the opposition's campaign in established media and television channels. This unequal campaign environment puts the opposition at a disadvantage, giving Erdogan an upper hand.

Explaining Erdogan's shift from wanting warm relations with Israel to espousing an ideological foreign policy, Dr. Yanorjak cites the Turkish President's upbringing and education within an Islamic system. Erdogan's pro-Hamas speeches affirm his ideological inclination, causing a rift between Turkey and Israel and closing doors for any mediation efforts during the ongoing conflict.

Adding to Turkey's challenges, the Turkish economy continues to face difficulties as the lira tumbles. Erdogan's need for foreign investment necessitates maintaining a certain ideological stance, which explains his move against Israel and the subsequent deterioration of normalized relations.

As Turkey's political landscape becomes increasingly complex ahead of the local elections, Erdogan's anti-Israel rhetoric and support for Hamas highlight his pursuit of domestic support while potentially endangering relations with longstanding allies.