Analysis: Is the claim of a ‘new Sunni axis’ against Israel a reality?

In an analysis for Ynet, Dr. Michael Milshtein argues that since October 7, many security assumptions in Israel have been accepted as 'facts' without sufficient scrutiny. He challenges the narrative promoted by Israeli political and security decision-makers regarding the emergence of a 'new Sunni axis' led by Turkey, which allegedly includes Qatar, Syria, and Hamas. Milshtein questions whether such an axis truly exists, noting that for an alliance to function, it requires shared goals, a unified vision, and close military cooperation—elements he suggests are currently lacking in this described bloc. The researcher warns that the Israeli public should be wary of potential political motives behind these claims. While acknowledging the hostility of Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s government, Milshtein questions whether threats from Ankara could be neutralized through diplomacy, particularly given Turkey’s role in NATO and its president's proximity to Donald Trump. He concludes by urging a courageous internal debate on Israel's strategic priorities, suggesting that the focus should remain on core threats like Iran's nuclear program rather than the identification of new enemies for political gain.