Syria supports Israeli strikes against Iran to weaken its adversary

In recent months, the dynamics of the conflict between Israel and Iran have shifted significantly, especially in light of Israel's ongoing military operations targeting Iranian interests. The Syrian regime, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, has begun to openly distance itself from Iran, which it sees as a strong adversary following Tehran's involvement in the Syrian civil war. Reports indicate that Damascus does not object to Israeli airstrikes against Iranian targets and may even welcome them, as every blow to Iran serves to benefit Syria's current leadership. This strategy marks a stark contrast to the previous Syrian government under Bashar al-Assad, which had maintained close ties with Iran. Now, the new regime appears to be taking significant steps to dismantle Iranian smuggling routes for arms to Hezbollah, which had fought alongside Assad's forces during the war. Internal conflicts suggest a shift in priorities for Syria, moving towards a stance that could ensure regional stability at the expense of its alliance with Iran. While the regime, still fragile from the civil war, is wary of immediate military confrontation with Israel, analysts note that it recognizes the potential advantages of a weakening Iran. The Syrian economy remains under duress, and military capacity has been severely degraded, limiting its ability to engage in further conflict. Neutrality towards Israeli actions against Iran is likely influenced by external pressures, particularly from Russia, which has interests in maintaining its military presence in Syria without escalating tensions further. The broader implications of this behavior highlight a notable strategic realignment in the Middle East, where former adversaries may find temporary common ground against a common foe. While Syria does not abandon its alliance with Iran outright, it now strives to balance relationships through a more pragmatic lens, willing to allow Israeli airstrikes to achieve its own political and military security interests amidst ongoing regional instability.