The article centers around the planned meeting between President Trump and Syria's interim president, Ahmed a-Sharaa, a former Al-Qaeda fighter. Israel expresses significant concerns, particularly regarding Turkey's expanding military presence in Syria and its potential threat to Israeli operational freedom.
Turkey's increasing military involvement in Syria, including plans to control the T4 airbase near Palmyra, is a major source of concern for Israel. Turkey's possession of advanced anti-aircraft systems and President Erdogan's anti-Israel rhetoric further escalate tensions.
Israel has responded with targeted strikes on Syrian bases and has conveyed its reluctance for a military conflict with Turkey to Ankara. However, the Israeli defense minister emphasized Israel's commitment to protecting its borders and citizens, including the Druze minority.
While Saudi Arabia is reportedly mediating a peace deal between Syria and Israel, there's significant skepticism regarding a-Sharaa's ability to foster lasting peace due to his past and the instability in Syria. Concerns remain about the released jihadists and the potential for future attacks against Israel.
The US State Department's response highlights conditions for ending sanctions on Syria, focusing on terrorism suppression, foreign fighter exclusion, and the protection of religious and ethnic minorities. The US currently supports Israel's defensive actions in Syria.