Israel shifts Syria strategy amid U.S. criticism and regional tension

Israel is shifting its strategic approach in Syria following criticism from U.S. envoy Tom Barrack, who labeled recent Israeli military strikes on Syrian bases as ‘unnecessary escalation.’ In response to pressure from Washington, Israeli officials have moved toward a diplomatic framework to manage security along the Israeli-Syrian border and mitigate tensions with Turkey.

Mossad chief Roman Gofman reportedly led negotiations in Jordan under U.S. auspices, meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shiban. The discussions focused on establishing security arrangements, including potential restrictions on heavy weaponry near the border and U.S. security guarantees. This shift aims to transform the Syrian issue from an open conflict involving Ankara and Damascus into a trilateral security framework.

Separately, Syria’s permanent representative to the UN, Ibrahim Olabi, warned the Security Council that the Middle East is sliding toward a broader conflict. Olabi accused Israel of undermining regional stability through air strikes and incursions, specifically citing attacks on the Abu al-Duhur airbase and presence on Mount Hermon. While Syria claims to be exercising ‘maximum restraint’ and participating in U.S.-backed diplomatic initiatives, it maintains that Israeli military actions directly contradict international efforts to stabilize the country.