Official statements from UN, NATO, or major countries involved

Israeli Intelligence Identifies Rapid Collapse of Syrian Army's Defense Lines in Northeast Syria

Dec 5, 2024, 06:46 PM

Israeli intelligence officials have identified an unexpectedly rapid collapse of the Syrian army's defensive lines in battles with rebels in northeast Syria over the past 24 hours, according to two senior Israeli officials. This development has prompted an emergency discussion by the Israeli Cabinet on the situation in Syria, with concerns that rebels might seize weapons and pose threats to Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu is currently holding discussions with security officials regarding these developments. The collapse of Syrian defenses is seen as a significant challenge to the Assad regime, the most severe in a decade, although a U.S. official stated that the Assad regime is not in immediate danger. Israel has expressed concerns to Washington about the potential for extremist Islamic elements to take control of Syria and has warned Iran against sending forces or transferring weapons that could reach Syria and Hezbollah.