The Middle East is witnessing new, tense developments, with Syria at risk of becoming a flashpoint for confrontation between Israel and Türkiye. Firm statements from both sides, coupled with deterrent airstrikes by Israel against Syria, are exposing the tug-of-war for influence between Tel Aviv and Ankara on the Syrian geopolitical chessboard.

New developments related to the conflict in the Middle East, together with rifts within the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), have confronted European countries with an unavoidable reality: being protected by a security umbrella does not necessarily mean enjoying sustainable safety.