Jerusalem, Sep 19 (V7N)- Israeli security officials have raised concerns over what they describe as a covert effort by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to expand the country's military capabilities and establish a large standing army.
According to a report published by The Jerusalem Post on Friday, Israeli security assessments allege that resources ranging from tax revenues to international assistance are being directed toward rebuilding Syria's military and acquiring new weapons systems.
The assessment claims that, after years of war, the Syrian government is placing greater emphasis on military expansion than on infrastructure reconstruction and improving living conditions for civilians. Israeli officials also allege that efforts are being made to keep aspects of the military buildup from public view.
According to Israeli military assessments cited by the report, Sharaa's forces could eventually seek to confront Hezbollah in Lebanon and pro-Iranian Shiite militias in Iraq. Israeli officials reportedly believe Damascus is waiting for conditions that would allow it to act while continuing to restructure and expand its armed forces.
Israeli security officials also pointed to Syria's changing international relationships. European countries, particularly Germany, are engaging with Damascus and providing assistance, partly in an effort to stabilize Syria and create conditions for the possible return of Syrian refugees.
At the same time, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are seeking closer ties with Sharaa's government through investment, diplomatic engagement and other forms of cooperation. Israeli sources say these efforts are intended, among other things, to encourage Damascus to distance itself from extremist elements and adopt a more moderate approach.
Relations between Syria and Turkey were also described as complicated. One Israeli security official told The Jerusalem Post that Sharaa may be reluctant to allow Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to gain extensive control over Syrian territory or military facilities. The official also argued that a recent Israeli strike in Syria may have benefited Sharaa by limiting Turkish influence.
Israeli security sources further claimed that Sharaa seeks to transform Syria into a regional power capable of exerting influence in multiple directions, while warning that Syria could eventually pose a military challenge to Israel.
The officials also argued that Israel missed an opportunity to reach an understanding with Sharaa during the early period of his rule, when his government was considered weaker. They said Israel could have sought arrangements concerning the border area and the Golan Heights but that no such agreement materialized.
Israeli intelligence and defense agencies are now reportedly intensifying efforts to monitor Syria's military personnel, organization and capabilities. Preparations are also said to be underway for possible operations if Damascus develops capabilities considered threatening to Israel.
Earlier this month, an Israeli defense official said Sharaa's forces were not yet at a high level of operational readiness but had already conducted several brigade-level military exercises. The official said Israel was closely monitoring Syria's military reorganization and efforts to acquire new weapons systems.
Israeli security officials assess that the possibility of renewed confrontation between Syria and Israel remains a concern, although the reports do not provide a specific timeline or predict how such a conflict could develop.
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