Turkey and Israel compete for influence in the Balkans

Geopolitical competition between Turkey and Israel is expanding into the Balkans, influencing the region's security architecture. Israel is increasing its presence through strengthened military and technological cooperation with countries such as Greece, Cyprus, and Serbia. This growing involvement, particularly in advanced defense technologies, is creating new military asymmetries in the region.

In response, Turkey is seeking to maintain regional balance by strengthening ties with Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro.

Serbia is playing a central role in this shifting landscape through a multi-vector foreign policy. Belgrade is modernizing its armed forces by diversifying defense partners, maintaining deep ties with Russia and China while simultaneously expanding military technology and surveillance cooperation with Israel and ordering Rafale fighter jets from France.