Former Israeli General Warns of Regional Escalation After Syria Strike

Retired Major General Eliezer Marom commented on the recent Israeli strike in Syria, stating it aimed to prevent Turkey from establishing a foothold in the country. He assessed that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is unlikely to initiate a war against Israel despite these tensions. Marom emphasized that Israel will not allow Turkey to control Syrian territory, highlighting the strategic importance and risks of the operation, which also carries a significant danger of regional escalation.

Marom addressed American condemnation of the strike, suggesting the US is aware and tacitly permits Israel's actions while publicly calling for calm. He noted that Iranian forces have largely withdrawn from Syria, which benefits Israel, but warned that Iran faces severe economic pressure from the US, particularly through efforts to choke its oil exports via the Strait of Hormuz. Marom described the US strategy as sidelining the military in favor of economic sanctions led by the Treasury and Energy departments.

Regarding Iran's potential response, Marom cautioned that Iran will not remain passive and must either return to negotiations or risk escalating violence. He referenced a recent attack by the United Arab Emirates as a sign of rising tensions. On reports of nuclear materials in Syria, Marom downplayed the threat, explaining that the materials are natural minerals and not enriched or weaponized.

Marom also commented on former US President Donald Trump's recent statements about control over the Strait of Hormuz, interpreting them as a clear message to Iran that it no longer holds strategic dominance there. This, he said, removes Iran's last significant leverage in the region.

The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further conflict depending on Iran's next moves and ongoing regional dynamics involving Turkey, Syria, and the US.