Official statements from the countries' governments or recognized international diplomatic bodies

Netanyahu Seeks Relations with New Syrian Regime, Warns of Forceful Response to Iran's Return

Dec 10, 2024, 05:04 PM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel seeks to establish diplomatic relations with the new regime in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. However, he warned that if the new Syrian government allows Iran to re-establish its presence or facilitate the transfer of weapons to Hezbollah, Israel would respond with significant force. Netanyahu emphasized Israel's commitment to not interfering in Syria's internal affairs but stressed the need to protect its security. He indicated that Israel would act decisively against any threats from Syrian territory, including attacks on Israel or allowing Iran to use Syrian soil to transfer weapons to Hezbollah.