Israeli security concerns in Syria

Following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime, Israel has begun monitoring efforts by the administration led by Ahmed al-Sharaa to rebuild the Syrian Air Force. Reports indicate new pilot recruitment, intensive training flights, and large-scale military exercises in northern Syria, including sightings of Sukhoi SU-22 fighter jets in Idlib province.

While analysts suggest these aging, Soviet-era aircraft may lack modern capabilities and spare parts, Israeli officials have expressed concerns to the United States regarding regional stability. A significant point of apprehension is the increasing Turkish military presence in northern Syria. Israeli security experts fear that Turkey may deploy advanced air-defense systems and radars, which could challenge Israeli air superiority and restrict its freedom of movement in Syrian airspace.

The new Syrian armed forces are reportedly receiving support from several international actors, including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and France.

Recent intelligence reported by the Israeli broadcaster Kan confirms signs of new pilot recruitment and training exercises involving Sukhoi fighter aircraft, helicopters, and trainer planes in northern Syria. This buildup follows previous Israeli airstrikes intended to deplete Syria’s strategic military capabilities. Damascus is currently rebuilding its military institutions through an expanding relationship with Turkey, which has signed a memorandum of understanding for joint military training and consultations.

In a notable diplomatic development, reports indicate that Israel requested U.S. military strikes against Turkish or Turkish-backed targets in northern Syria, but President Trump personally intervened to block the operation. This occurs amid a growing Turkish military presence in Kurdish-inhabited regions and a collective defense pact signed between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan.