In a recent development, Israel has reportedly issued a stark ultimatum to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, pressuring him to reconsider his alliance with Iran and withdraw support for Hezbollah, according to an exclusive report by Elaph, a Saudi news outlet. A high-ranking security official from the Middle East told Elaph that Israel’s message offered Assad a choice: either continue aligning with the Iranian axis, risking the stability of his regime, or distance himself from Iran and Hezbollah, which could pave the way for improved relations with Arab nations, especially Saudi Arabia, and allow him to retain his leadership.
Tensions surrounding Syria’s relationship with Iran have intensified, as the report claims that Syrian forces recently removed Hezbollah members from two key positions in Zabadani, northwest of Damascus and near the Lebanese border, at Israel’s request. These locations were allegedly being used to store weapons destined for Hezbollah in Lebanon, prompting Israel to call for their evacuation before any potential military action.
The Israeli ultimatum reportedly triggered a rift between Assad and his brother, Maher Assad, who commands the elite Fourth Division of the Syrian army. Maher, a staunch supporter of Syria’s Iranian alliance, opposed cutting ties with Iran. The disagreement became so severe that President Assad called Maher to a high-level meeting, which Maher refused to attend.
Israel has previously targeted Maher’s assets near Damascus, reportedly as a warning over his close ties with Iran. As a result, Maher has recently scaled back his public appearances. Israeli messages to the Syrian regime have highlighted that Syria is “on the brink” due to its support for Iranian-backed groups and its role in Hezbollah’s arms pipeline. Israel warned that it would be left with no option but to take direct action against the Syrian government if the alliance with Iran and Hezbollah continues.
This ultimatum and reported discord between the Assad brothers indicate deepening fractures within Syria’s ruling elite, as they navigate the delicate balance between regional alliances and the growing pressure to distance themselves from Iran.
