Israel Worries Over Syria's Military Buildup Under Al-Charaa
Israeli defense officials are increasingly concerned about Syria's military modernization efforts under President Ahmed al-Charaa, according to a senior defense source cited by Walla and the Jerusalem Post. The former jihadist leader is believed to retain his past ideology while pursuing a sophisticated diplomatic strategy to legitimize his regime with the U.S., moderate Sunni Arab states, and Europe. "He knows how to address each audience and each interlocutor separately, and adapt to the situation," the official stated.
Israel's primary concern centers on Damascus's persistent efforts to rearm the country. Al-Charaa is reportedly working to rehabilitate Syrian military bases and acquire weapons systems that could limit the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) freedom of action, particularly the air force. Syria is also rebuilding its ground forces, forming new companies, battalions, and brigades, with divisions being the next planned step. While Syrian troops are not yet at a high level of operational readiness, brigade-level exercises have reportedly been conducted. "We do not take any process lightly. We have already seen what pickup trucks are capable of doing in Syria, Iraq, and especially in the Gaza Strip," the source warned, referencing the October 7th attacks.
Furthermore, Israel accuses al-Charaa of allowing hostile actors to establish a presence in Syria under the guise of cooperation or advisory missions. Relations between Damascus and Ankara are described as more complex than they appear, with Turkey seeking political and strategic concessions from al-Charaa, which some in his circle reportedly resent. The Syrian regime also remains hostile towards Iran and Hezbollah, evidenced by increased border controls and restrictions on Shiite communities, though not yet military actions.
Israeli officials have not ruled out the possibility that al-Charaa might intervene in Lebanon if a new civil war erupts there, potentially as revenge against Hezbollah for its role in the Syrian civil war. Rising terrorist activity in southern Syria, linked to clan rivalries and sectarian groups, is another significant concern for Israel. As Syria attempts to stabilize, attract foreign investment, and gain international legitimacy, Israel is still assessing al-Charaa's true intentions and the future direction he intends to take the country.
