IDF Intelligence Chief Warns Greece to Prepare for Conflict with Turkey
Marco Moreno, a reserve lieutenant colonel and former senior official in Unit 504 of Israeli military intelligence, has issued a direct warning to Greece, stating that it should prepare for war with Turkey. Moreno, who has approximately 25 years of experience in military intelligence, believes that Turkey poses a genuine threat to Greek security and insists that Athens must take the possibility of military confrontation seriously. His insights are informed by years of intelligence operations, particularly in Lebanon and Syria, where he has witnessed the evolving security dynamics along Israel's northern borders.
Moreno's operational background provides a unique perspective on current developments in the region. He served in senior positions within Unit 504, which specializes in gathering intelligence from human sources. His responsibilities included managing agents and intelligence networks, as well as planning and directing special operations beyond Israel's borders. This experience has given him first-hand knowledge of local power dynamics and the armed organizations that influence security in the area.
A significant part of Moreno's career was his involvement in Operation Good Neighbour during the Syrian civil war. He played a crucial role in establishing contacts across the border and organizing a mechanism that combined relationships with local groups in southern Syria with humanitarian assistance for civilians. This initiative helped thousands of Syrian civilians receive aid, showcasing the intertwining of military requirements, intelligence gathering, and humanitarian efforts in his work.
Moreno's Warning to Greek Officials
In his interview, Moreno shifts the focus to Greece, reiterating the threat he believes Turkey represents. He urges Greek officials to take this prospect seriously and prepare accordingly. His warning centers on the need for readiness in a scenario that he considers a realistic possibility. Given his extensive background in intelligence operations, his views carry weight, especially regarding Turkey's presence in Syria and its implications for regional security.
Approved for Dissemination
Moreno describes the Greek people as brave and courageous, emphasizing the importance of early preparation for potential conflicts. He encapsulates his assessment with the phrase, "Winter is coming," highlighting the challenges that lie ahead for Greece. This exclusive interview, featured in Proto Thema's Medusa section, allows Moreno to articulate his concerns and provides Greek audiences with insight into the reasoning behind his stark recommendations.
Unit 504 is one of Israel's most specialized military intelligence services, focusing on the collection of intelligence through human sources. Operating under the Israel Defense Forces' Directorate of Military Intelligence, known as Aman, it primarily works beyond Israel's borders, recruiting informants and developing networks in strategically important areas. The intelligence gathered by Unit 504 is crucial for assessing threats and supporting military operations.