US fears Israeli policies in Syria

As Syria attempts to move forward after years of conflict and political upheaval, new tensions are emerging on its southern border.

Growing American concern over Israeli military activity in Syria has brought the issue directly to the White House, placing regional stability, fragile diplomacy, and the future of Syrian-Israeli relations at the center of a renewed international debate.

Trump invites Netanyahu to Washington after Syria warning

US President Donald Trump held a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which he extended an invitation for Netanyahu to visit the White House in the near future. This would mark Netanyahu’s 5th visit to Washington since Trump’s return to office in January 2025. The conversation reportedly focused heavily on Syria and the increasingly sensitive regional dynamics surrounding the country’s political transition.

According to statements shared by Trump on his Truth Social platform, he warned Israel against taking any actions that could undermine Syria’s stability or disrupt its reconstruction process. Trump described the current moment as a “historic opportunity” and emphasized the importance of maintaining open and meaningful dialogue between Syria and Israel to prevent further escalation.

Trump expresses support for Syria’s new leadership

In parallel with his warnings to Israel, Trump praised Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, stating that he is working hard to achieve positive outcomes for his country. Trump confirmed that the United States has been satisfied with recent developments in Syria and highlighted the importance of continued reform efforts.

Trump also pointed out that the lifting of certain severe sanctions has proven beneficial for the Syrian population and expressed confidence that the Syrian leadership would continue working toward building a stable and prosperous state.

President Sharaa has made 2 recent visits to the United States, including a formal address to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and a meeting at the White House. These engagements were described as steps toward strengthening Syrian-American relations and expanding cooperation across political, economic, and regional issues.

Military activity raises border tensions

The phone call coincided with reports of Israeli military movements in southern Syria, particularly in the countryside of Quneitra. An Israeli patrol, accompanied by military vehicles and tanks, had advanced into areas such as Tal al-Hamriyah, Tal Abu Qubeis, and regions near the village of Ain Zivan. Though no direct confrontations were confirmed, the movements heightened concerns over renewed tension along the Syrian-Israeli border.

These developments come at a time when Syria is attempting to reestablish internal stability following years of conflict. Many fear that additional cross-border operations could complicate an already fragile security environment.

Concerns inside the Trump administration

Reports have indicated that the Trump administration has grown increasingly concerned that repeated Israeli strikes in Syria could sabotage chances of reaching a future security agreement between the two countries. According to informed sources, US officials urged Israel to halt further military activity in Syria and warned that continued action could cost the region a significant diplomatic opportunity.

Officials also stated that the White House had not been notified in advance of recent Israeli operations, a departure from previous coordination practices. One senior US official claimed that Syria is not seeking conflict with Israel and suggested that miscalculations could turn Syria’s new leadership into an unnecessary adversary.

Netanyahu’s conditions for progress

In response, Netanyahu reiterated that Israel’s primary concern lies in maintaining national security. He stated that Israel expects the establishment of a demilitarized zone extending from Damascus to the buffer area in the Golan Heights. While he indicated that a positive attitude from Syria could potentially lead to an agreement, this willingness remains conditional on Israel’s security demands being met.

These exchanges reflect a complex and delicate moment in Middle Eastern politics. With shifting alliances, emerging leadership, and a region shaped by years of conflict, the emphasis now appears to be on diplomacy and restraint. Whether this moment becomes a turning point for peace or another missed opportunity remains to be seen.