As the Middle East undergoes dramatic upheaval following the collapse of Iran’s ruling regime during Operation Roaring Lion, analysts are warning that the region is entering a new and unpredictable phase. While the long-standing Iranian threat may be weakening, a new power struggle is already emerging. Observers note that the removal of one dominant force often creates a vacuum—one that ambitious regional players are eager to fill.

Among those positioning themselves for influence is Turkey under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Turkish leadership and pro-government voices have begun shifting their rhetoric, suggesting that Israel may soon become the next obstacle to regional ambitions. With Iran’s proxy network weakened, Ankara appears ready to step into the ideological and strategic space once occupied by Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Developments in Syria suggest Turkey is actively maneuvering to expand its sphere of influence, moving its military and intelligence posture closer to Israel’s borders while attempting to reshape the regional balance of power.

SOURCE: JP