Syrian President Blames Israel for Regional Instability

Syrian President Ahmed al-Shar'a criticized Israeli policy towards his country during a discussion at the Atlantic Council in New York, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Al-Shar'a stated that the events of October 7th should not dictate Israeli policy toward Syria, calling it illogical and a source of additional security threats. "If you want to protect your security, you must respect the security of others," he asserted.

Al-Shar'a claimed that Israel creates problems around itself to maintain its security, but argued that this approach is ineffective. He also mentioned that Israel had twice attacked Syria's presidential palace and airports, questioning whether these actions would enhance Israeli citizens' security. "I believe the problem is in Israel, not in Syria," he concluded, noting successful relations with the United States, Britain, and Lebanon.