A former senior Israeli military intelligence officer has urged Greece to prepare for a potential military confrontation with Turkey, warning Athens not to underestimate Ankara’s growing military capabilities and regional influence.
Marco Moreno, who reportedly served for nearly 25 years in key positions within Israel’s Military Intelligence Directorate (AMAN), delivered the warning in an interview with Greek newspaper Proto Thema.
“Prepare for war with Turkey. Make your military preparations in time. Winter is coming,” Moreno reportedly told the Greek public.
Former intelligence officer points to Turkey’s growing military power
Moreno argued that Greece must keep the possibility of military conflict with Turkey firmly within its defence planning.
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He pointed to Turkey’s expanding defence industry, growing military capabilities and increasing influence across the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, arguing that these developments are reshaping the regional balance of power.
He also highlighted Turkey’s military presence in Syria, acknowledging Ankara’s significant influence on developments on the ground.
“With its military capabilities, advancements in the defence industry, and influence on regional developments, Türkiye is one of the most critical actors in the security balance of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East,” Moreno reportedly said.
His background in Israel’s intelligence services
Moreno previously commanded operations within Unit 504, a highly specialised division of Israel’s Military Intelligence Directorate, AMAN.
The unit is responsible for human intelligence (HUMINT), including the recruitment and management of intelligence sources, as well as field operations beyond Israel’s borders.
During his career, Moreno reportedly oversaw intelligence networks in foreign countries and played a role in operations involving Syria and Lebanon.
His remarks come amid heightened geopolitical competition across the Eastern Mediterranean, where Greece and Turkey continue to face longstanding disagreements over maritime boundaries, military activity and regional security.
Moreno’s comments amount to a stark warning to Athens about Turkey’s growing strategic position, although his call for Greece to prepare for war represents his own assessment rather than an indication of an imminent military confrontation.
Source: Sözcü, reporting on an interview with Proto Thema.
