Israel is reportedly lobbying the United States to ensure that Syria remains a weakened and decentralised state, advocating for Russia’s continued military presence in the country.
According to a report by Reuters, citing four anonymous sources, Israeli officials have conveyed to Washington that Russian bases in Syria serve as a counterbalance to growing Turkish influence.
The Israeli position is rooted in concerns over Turkey’s role in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Ankara-backed Islamist factions now hold significant power, and Israel fears that a strengthened Turkish presence could pose a security risk to its borders.
According to sources, Israeli officials argue that these new Islamist rulers could provide a base of operations for groups such as Hamas and other militant factions hostile to Israel.
Israeli Diplomacy in Washington
Sources indicate that Israel communicated its stance to senior US officials during meetings in Washington in February, as well as in subsequent discussions held in Israel.
This effort forms part of a broader diplomatic push aimed at influencing American policy at a critical juncture for Syria. The country remains fragmented, and its new leadership is seeking stability while pressing Washington to lift sanctions.
Aron Lund, a fellow at the US-based think tank Century International, stated that Israel’s primary concern is the prospect of Turkey reinforcing the emerging Islamist governance in Syria.
“Israel’s biggest fear is that Turkey will step in to protect the new Syrian Islamist order, which could then become a base of operations for Hamas and other militant groups,” Lund said.
Israeli Support for Russian Presence
During their meetings with American counterparts, Israeli officials reportedly advocated for Russia to retain its Mediterranean naval base in Tartus and its airbase in Hmeimim, Latakia province. This stance surprised some US officials, as Turkey, a NATO member, is generally seen as a more natural security partner for Israel than Russia. However, Israeli officials were reportedly adamant in their opposition to Turkey’s expanding role.
According to sources, it remains unclear to what extent the administration of US President Donald Trump is considering Israel’s proposals. The future of Russia’s military bases in Syria is also a subject of ongoing negotiations between Moscow and Syria’s new leadership.
