US Ambassador Acknowledges Israeli Strike in Syria Amid Turkish Military Moves

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Herzog clarified that there is no official American endorsement of Israel's recent strike in Syria, but he expressed understanding of Israel's actions given the context. Herzog described the southward movement of Turkish military forces in Syria as a direct threat to Israel, emphasizing that Israel cannot ignore such developments. He noted that Israel faces multiple adversaries and cannot remain indifferent to emerging threats, especially from Turkey, whose President Erdogan has publicly expressed ambitions over East Jerusalem and reviving Ottoman influence.

Herzog stressed that Turkey is a NATO member and maintains a good relationship with the United States, but the transfer of Turkish military assets deeper into Syria is detrimental not only to Syria but also to Israel and global stability. He characterized the Israeli strike as a limited action intended to send a message rather than provoke a broader conflict, pointing out that the attack involved a few bombs dropped on an airport without casualties.

When directly asked if the US supports the strike, Herzog refrained from confirming any official position, stating that no public US stance has been taken. Nonetheless, he reiterated American concerns about Turkey's military entrenchment in Syria and acknowledged Israel's rationale for acting. Herzog expressed hope for regional calm and a future security agreement between Syria and Israel, but warned that Turkish attempts to establish a strong foothold in Syria would undermine such prospects.