Israeli Minister Shikli Warns Syria Under Julani Is 'Next War' Threat Like 'Gaza on Steroids'

Israeli Minister Amichai Shikli issued a stark warning about the new regime in Syria, led by Abu Muhammad al-Julani, during an appearance on Gadi Taub's podcast "Shomer Saf." Shikli criticized Israeli security officials who view the regime change in Damascus as an opportunity, dismissing such optimism as misguided. He specifically challenged former Defense Minister and IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot's positive assessment of the shift in Syrian leadership.

Shikli emphasized that anyone familiar with Middle Eastern Islamist movements, including the Muslim Brotherhood, global jihadist groups, and Salafi factions, would see no opportunity in Julani's rise. He described the threat from Syria under Julani as far more complex and dangerous than the current threat from the Gaza Strip. Shikli called Julani "Gaza on steroids," warning that Julani envisions himself as Israel's next enemy, akin to Yahya Sinwar but with greater resources, including two seaports and backing from a powerful ally.

The minister concluded that conflict with this new Syrian threat is inevitable, stating, "This is the next war with absolute certainty. There is no avoiding it." His comments reflect deep concern over the evolving security landscape in Syria and its implications for Israel's future defense challenges.