-
Israel Warns Against Polishing Jolani's Image and Describes Him as a "Wolf in Sheep's Clothing"
-
Israel's hardline position on Al-Shara's leadership of Syria reflects fears of Damascus becoming an Islamic center of influence threatening Western interests
Israel escalated its rhetoric regarding developments in Syria, as Deputy Foreign Minister Sharon Haskel described the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham as a "wolf in sheep's clothing".
During her press conference, Haskel presented photographic documents linking Jolani to what she described as "extremist Islamic factions," warning against attempts to "whitewash the image of jihadist groups" in Syria.
These statements coincided with intensified Israeli air and naval strikes in Syria, having carried out more than 350 strikes targeting strategic sites since the fall of Assad's regime.
The Israeli government approved a plan to double settlement activity in the Golan, while affirming its unwillingness to engage in direct conflict with Damascus.
Israeli concerns contrast with increasing international openness toward the new Syrian authorities, as several diplomatic missions have arrived in Damascus to meet with its leadership.
The UN humanitarian aid official expressed optimism after meetings in Damascus, indicating the possibility of increased humanitarian support, while Al-Shara continues his efforts to reassure the international community through pledges to dissolve armed factions and integrate them into the army.
Levant-Agencies
