The Israeli strategy in Syria reflects a broader geopolitical context, where Israel seeks to balance its security needs against the backdrop of Russian and Iranian interests in the region.
The potential for Israeli-Russian cooperation may hinge on Russia's ability to navigate its relationships with both Iran and Israel, particularly as tensions rise in the region.
Increased Israeli air strikes in Syria may lead to heightened tensions with Iranian forces and Hezbollah, potentially escalating military confrontations in the region.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine may influence Russia's willingness to cooperate with Israel, as Moscow balances its interests in Syria with its relationship with Tehran.
The dynamics of Israeli-Russian relations have intensified recently, particularly in the context of Israel's air strikes on Syrian territory. These strikes target Iranian and Hezbollah positions, aiming to disrupt the supply of weapons to Hezbollah from Syria. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have emphasized the importance of cutting off these supplies, which they refer to as 'cutting off the oxygen' to Hezbollah.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar has indicated that Russia could play a significant role in pressuring Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to prevent the smuggling of Iranian weapons to Hezbollah. This cooperation is crucial as Israel seeks to undermine Hezbollah's infrastructure and military capabilities in Syria.
The coordination between Israel and Russia remains strong despite their differing positions on the Ukraine war. Israel established a hotline with Russia in 2015 to ensure the safety of its operations in Syria, and this communication has continued even after the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict.
Recent developments include Israel's construction of a security wall along the Golan Heights border and increased military surveillance operations in southern Syria. This move aligns with Israel's strategy to establish a safe zone and fortify its defenses against potential threats from Hezbollah.
