04.04.2025 08:10
A notable development occurred during the Iniochos air exercise held in the Aegean. Greece hosted the exercise, which was organized in response to potential threats in the Eastern Mediterranean, while the United States took the lead. The participation of Qatar, the largest supporter of Hamas, alongside Israel sparked controversy. Israeli media reported that Qatar wanted to keep its participation secret, but Greece "exposed" it.
Striking developments occurred during the multinational "Iniochos 2025" exercise held at the Andravida Air Base in Greece from March 31 to April 11.
The exercise included 11 countries such as Israel, Qatar, the Greek Cypriot Administration, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain. Israel's G550 Nachshon early warning aircraft, Qatar's F-15QA fighter jets, the UAE's Mirage 2000-9s, and Bahrain's F-16s flew in the same sky.
ONE OF HAMAS' BIGGEST SUPPORTERS
The most notable participant was Qatar. Known as one of Hamas' biggest financial supporters and having taken on a mediating role in the war in Gaza, Qatar operated alongside Israel this time. In fact, Israeli media reported that Qatar wanted to keep its participation secret, but Greece "exposed" it. In the diplomatic labyrinth of the Middle East, Qatar and Israel worked on scenarios in the same briefing room against the same targets.
NO PLACE FOR TURKEY IN THE EXERCISE
The purpose of the exercise was announced as ensuring stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and securing trade routes extending from India to Europe. However, Turkey was not included in the coalition formed for this objective. Moreover, Qatar, which participated in the exercise, has investments exceeding $33 billion in 220 companies in media, land, banking, and defense industries in Turkey. Qatar, declared as "Turkey's friend," being on the opposing side has also sparked reactions.