Israeli media outlets have criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government for escalating tensions with Turkey over Syria, warning that Israel could face another war front. The criticism followed an Israeli attack on the Abu al-Duhur military base in northern Syria on August 18, which the reports said heightened friction between the two countries.

Haaretz said Netanyahu’s policies risk drawing Israel into another “unnecessary conflict” and argued that military action cannot be the only means of ensuring security. It warned that a possible confrontation with Turkey could carry a heavy cost, noting Turkey’s NATO membership and close ties with the United States. Ynet said the tension could create a new, or “eighth,” front in Israel’s ongoing regional conflicts, while Maariv reported concerns among senior officials about another war front.

Israel said its attack was driven by concerns over an expanded Turkish military presence in Syria, a claim criticized by Turkey and the United States. Syria suspended contacts with Israel after the attack and said it would continue defense cooperation with Turkey. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said there was no reason for direct conflict, accusing Netanyahu of portraying Turkey as a political rival.