SAEDNEWS: An Israeli analysis describes Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, as a growing strategic dilemma for Israel despite his efforts to confront Russia, surrender the remnants of Syria’s nuclear program and signal readiness for an agreement with Israel.
According to SaedNews: Israel’s Yedioth Ahronoth said in its Friday weekend edition that despite Ahmed al-Sharaa, better known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, taking significant steps against Russia’s presence in Syria, agreeing to hand over the remaining elements of the country’s nuclear program and repeatedly expressing readiness for an agreement with Israel, he is still viewed as a dangerous regional figure and is apparently described as a “time bomb” for political reasons.
In an article by Israeli analyst Michael Milshtein titled “How Syria Has Become a Strategic Dilemma for Israel,” the paper discussed a recent media and public debate in Israel over an alleged case in which one regional country advised another to sign an agreement with Israel and later violate it.
The details were unclear, including which countries were involved, when and at what level talks took place, and how serious they were. There was debate over whether Saudi Arabia, Egypt or Turkey was the country giving the advice, while there was broad agreement that Syria was the country being advised.
Milshtein, a senior researcher at Tel Aviv University’s Dayan Center, argued that Syria under al-Sharaa has become a strategic challenge for Israel. The leader, whose jihadist roots and seizure of Damascus in December 2024 ended more than five decades of rule, is difficult to classify simply as an enemy who must be fought.
The article said al-Sharaa quickly abandoned his traditional military clothing for a suit and tie and, unlike expectations for a jihadist who takes power, adopted a more moderate tone. He has become an accepted and even popular figure, particularly in the Arab world, where he is seen as useful in limiting Iranian influence and helping stabilize the region after two decades of turmoil.
Among his prominent admirers is Trump. This week, al-Sharaa also reached an agreement with Russia, Assad’s former ally, while accepting the transfer of the remnants of Syria’s nuclear program.
Milshtein said Syria’s new ruler has not fully surrendered to Israeli demands. His recent comments to Al Jazeera, in which he called for the return of the Golan Heights in exchange for compromise, further complicate Israel’s position.
The analyst added that while al-Sharaa’s strong hostility toward Iran is encouraging, his negative stance toward Israel must also be carefully taken into account.
