Israel: Al-Sharaa’s speech shows support for attackers

Israel described Al-Sharaa’s speech as a display of support for jihadist attackers, calling for Syria’s international acceptance to be conditioned on the protection of minorities, after bombing government sites to pressure Damascus.

19 July, 2025 14:39

NEWSDESK

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar commented on the speech delivered by the Transitional Government president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement in Sweida.

Sa’ar stated that “Al-Sharaa’s speech was a show of support for jihadist attackers,” emphasizing that “the international community must ensure the safety and rights of minorities in Syria.” He added that “Syria’s acceptance into the international community should be linked to the protection of minorities.”

Israel had intervened during the clashes in Sweida by bombing targets including the Ministry of Defense, the General Staff Headquarters, and the Presidential Palace in Damascus; a move it considered pressure on the transitional government forces to withdraw from Sweida.

Earlier today, Ahmed al-Sharaa acknowledged in a televised speech that the tribal fighters’ advance toward Sweida was encouraged by his government.

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ANHA