JERUSALEM (VINnews) — A war of words erupted between Israel and Turkey on Wednesday after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan warned that Ankara would respond forcefully if Turkish interests were harmed in the Middle East, prompting sharp criticism from Israeli leaders.

Speaking Wednesday, Erdoğan claimed that Israeli military actions in Syria and Lebanon have reached a point where they pose a threat to Turkey. He warned against what he described as Israeli initiatives in the eastern Mediterranean and said Turkey would react strongly if Turks or Turkish Cypriots were targeted.

Erdoğan also said Turkey’s security interests extend beyond its borders, citing cities including Aleppo, Damascus and Beirut, and pledged not to remain silent in the face of actions against neighboring countries. He further criticized discussions surrounding a so-called “Greater Israel,” saying Turkey would oppose such ambitions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded with a blistering statement, accusing Erdoğan of supporting Hamas, repressing political opponents and lacking standing to criticize Israel.

“The State of Israel and the IDF will continue to act forcefully against Iran and its proxies, which threaten the Middle East and the entire world,” Netanyahu said.

Israeli Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar also condemned Erdoğan’s remarks, accusing the Turkish leader of hypocrisy and warning against any direct confrontation with Israel.

The exchange comes amid ongoing tensions between Jerusalem and Ankara over the wars in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, as well as competing strategic interests in the eastern Mediterranean.

Erdoğan’s comments appeared to reference reports that Israel, Greece and Cyprus have discussed expanding security cooperation in the region, including the possibility of a joint military framework.

Separately, Turkish officials have continued to make statements regarding Jerusalem. Turkey’s interior minister recently declared at a ruling party gathering that he hopes to one day see the “liberation of Jerusalem,” remarks that drew criticism from Israeli officials.

Relations between Israel and Turkey have deteriorated significantly since the outbreak of the Gaza war, with leaders in both countries frequently exchanging accusations over regional security and military operations.