Israel names new envoy to Turkey amid Gaza tensions

The Israeli Foreign Ministry selected Lion for the role following the retirement of Ambassador Irit Lillian earlier this year. An Israeli official described the embassy's status as a security matter, not political, noting that local staff continue to operate. The embassy's staff were withdrawn from Ankara and Istanbul in late 2023.

Relations between Israel and Turkey have been increasingly strained since the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. Turkey initially condemned Israel's military actions in Gaza, later describing the war as genocide and imposing trade sanctions in 2024. Tensions further escalated over Syria, with Israeli strikes targeting an airbase near the Turkish border last month.

There is an expectation in Ankara that a potential change in Israeli leadership following the upcoming general elections in October could lead to renewed dialogue between the two countries. However, the Israeli official suggested Netanyahu's government could survive and potentially bring broader policy shifts. The official also cited "incitement against Israel" in Turkish media as a significant issue.