The Israeli military launched a Turkish-language account on X, appointing Arye Sharuz Shalicar as spokesperson. Shalicar, previously involved in gang activity in Germany, has faced backlash for his past and recent controversial comments. His role aims to clarify IDF’s military actions in the region as concerns about Turkey’s influence grow.
The Israeli military has initiated a Turkish-language account on X (formerly Twitter), appointing Arye Sharuz Shalicar as its spokesperson. Shalicar, a controversial figure with a history of gang involvement in Germany, previously stabbed a rival gang member. The account aims to provide timely updates regarding the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Israel expresses concerns about new leaders in Damascus with ties to Ankara, whom they view as Islamist extremists. Despite their non-aggressive stance towards Israel, the nation is reportedly seeking support from the U.S. and Russia to counter Turkey’s influence in the region.
Shalicar’s background raises eyebrows; he was born in 1977 in Germany and became part of a youth gang in Berlin, engaging in criminal activities. At 17, during a gang-related altercation, he stabbed a Turkish member, a pivotal moment that heightened his gang reputation. Although the police never caught him, he reflected on a troubled upbringing with his parents due to his lifestyle.
Despite his criminal past, Shalicar fostered friendships with Turkish and Kurdish individuals from his neighborhood, which offered him support against antisemitism. Nevertheless, he ultimately deemed his environment too perilous. He learned Russian and Turkish, moved to Israel in 2001, completed military service, and earned a degree in international relations.
Shalicar’s appointment as spokesperson has sparked criticism regarding the timing and his qualifications, particularly the choice of a non-native Turkish speaker. His previous role as a German spokesperson was marred by his adversarial comments towards journalists covering Gaza, resulting in allegations of anti-Semitism directed at these reporters. Earlier this year, he addressed Turkish viewers in a video, asserting that Israeli military actions target Hamas rather than Palestinians.
The Israeli military has not yet commented on the backlash.
In summary, Arye Sharuz Shalicar has been appointed as the spokesperson for the Israeli military’s new Turkish-language account, aiming to enhance communication with Turkish-speaking audiences. His controversial past and previous criticisms of journalists have led to backlash regarding his suitability for the role. The larger context involves Israel’s strategic concerns amidst shifting regional dynamics, particularly regarding Turkish influence in the Middle East.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
