Although in '73 it was only due to the Soviets cutting off spare parts and ammunition to the Egyptians halting their advance that allowed Israel to counter attack. The Soviets didn't want Israel destroyed, then what would their client states need them for? Better to keep keep tensions high but Israel intact.
Eh. Israel taking on Turkey? Fat chance... Global Firepower has them ranked sixth in the world for military strength.
Guy running Turkey now is a nutto. Top generals in their military resigned just a couple of months ago. Not sure if the Israeli navy could take on Turkey's 1-1, but it's moot since the area would be very much in range for the IAF.
This is gonna get bad. The Turkish PM at present is an Islamist and he's acting like a tantrumous 2 year old here. He seems like he's trying to start a war with Israel, and with his Islamist credentials I'd wager that's exactly what he's hoping for.
which now leads to the question of what happens if this gets "hot"? Turkey is a member of NATO, last I checked, Israel isn't. If the rest of the NATO community did back Israel, wouldn't that essentially prove by demonstration the Islamic view that western nations can't be trusted to even honour alliances?
There won't be a conflict. This is just sabre-rattling from the Turks to win plaudits (and oil/business contracts) in the Middle East where previously they hadn't much opportunities due to their (a) close association with Israel, and (b) Arab hostility to the 'Ottomans' that had previously subjugated them.
Just a thought. Obama is up for a very tough re-election. Which country's supporters, Israel or Turkey do you think are more important to his re-election bid?
For some reason, it seems Obama is untouchable to the "mainstream" Jewish voting block. It is a mystery!
You are mistaken. Obama's poll numbers in the jewish community are sinking faster than titanic. Large Jewish donors are keeping their pockets closed. He's in big trouble there and further problems with Israel will not help.
Another thought. The UN report has ruled the blockade legal. If Turkey tries to break it they would be in violation of international law.
I swear to Jebus if even one thick, silky black hair on any female IDF member is harmed......don't make me come down there Turkey!
In a naval conflict? The Turkish navy is the most powerful in the region, more powerful than even the Russian Black Sea Fleet. The IDF is more formidable on land.
Yeah, except Israel has nukes and Turkey doesn't. I'd put my money on Israel in a balls-out, no holds barred fight.
The IAF has flat out embarrassed the US Navy in the Med a few times on exercises. They're the ones I'd be worried about if I was Turkey. Remember, we're talking about breaking a blockade in what is essentially Israeli waters. Local to the good guys, and a much longer logistics chain for the Turks, especially in the realm of an air umbrella. $5 on the IDF.