Israeli Military Launches Turkish-Language Service Led by Controversial Spokesman
The Israeli military has launched a Turkish-language X account with Arye Sharuz Shalicar, a controversial figure due to his past gang involvement in Germany, including stabbing a Turkish rival. Criticism surrounds his appointment and the account’s timing amidst concerns over Turkey’s influence in the region. His previous role as a spokesperson for the German media has also drawn backlash for offensive remarks against journalists.
The Israeli military has initiated a Turkish-language social media account on X (formerly Twitter), appointing Arye Sharuz Shalicar as the spokesperson. Shalicar’s history includes previous involvement in gang activities in Germany, marked by a notable incident where he stabbed a Turkish adversary.
Shalicar announced, “Welcome to the official X account of the Israel Defense Forces! This platform will be used to provide reliable and instant updates on developments regarding the IDF.” Israel’s new Turkish service comes amid concerns regarding pro-Turkish Islamist elements in Damascus, as Israel seeks to counterbalance Turkey’s rising influence in the region.
Born to Iranian Jewish parents in Germany, Shalicar grew up in Berlin’s Wedding district and became tangled in gang affiliations. He confirmed to media outlets that during his youth, “I was involved in crime, involved in gang life… all sorts of things. What gangs usually do.” As a teenager, he stabbed a Turkish gang member, an incident that solidified his reputation in criminal circles.
Despite his violent past, Shalicar formed friendships with Turkish and Kurdish individuals from his neighborhood, some of whom defended him against antisemitic attacks. Concerned about his safety, he left Germany for Israel in 2001 after completing military training and studying international relations and Middle Eastern history.
Shalicar’s recent announcement of the Turkish-language service received significant backlash, with critics questioning the decision to appoint a spokesperson without native proficiency in Turkish. Previous criticisms of his role as a German-language spokesperson noted his inappropriate comments towards journalists reporting on Gaza, as he targeted prominent figures as “Top 10 propagators of Jew-hatred.”
Previously, in January, Shalicar addressed Turkish audiences in a video, asserting that Israeli military efforts focused on Hamas rather than Palestinian citizens. The Israeli military has yet to respond to inquiries concerning the launch of the new account.
In summary, Arye Sharuz Shalicar’s appointment as the spokesperson for the new Turkish-language account of the Israeli military raises concerns due to his controversial past and the growing scrutiny of Israel’s messaging strategies. His previous actions have led to significant criticism regarding his credibility and the appropriateness of current military communication initiatives towards Turkish-speaking audiences. Ultimately, these developments reflect ongoing tensions and challenges in the region, particularly regarding Israel’s relations with Turkey and the broader Middle East.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
