Israeli strikes on Syria and Lebanon could escalate regional tensions, EU warns

TEL AVIV — Amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes on Syria and Lebanon, Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas cautioned that such military actions could fuel further instability.

During a press conference with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, Kallas stressed that military operations should be proportionate, adding that these strikes are “unnecessary” since Syria is not currently attacking Israel.

She warned that such actions could also fuel anti-Israel extremism.

Israeli media, citing security sources, reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is conducting security consultations regarding Turkey’s increasing influence in Syria. Netanyahu reportedly views a potential confrontation with Turkey as inevitable, framing it as a growing concern for Israel’s security strategy.

According to reports, negotiations between Syria and Turkey are allegedly underway, with discussions focusing on transferring areas near Tadmurto (Palmyra) to Turkish forces in exchange for economic and military support to Damascus. These developments have reportedly alarmed Israeli officials, who are concerned about possible Turkish advances into central Syria, particularly around Tadmurto.

Additionally, Israeli authorities claim that the Syrian regime is rebuilding military bases and enhancing missile capabilities near southern Syria, posing a potential threat to the Israeli border.