Israel ‘Will Be at War With Syria Sooner or Later’, Says Likud Minister

Israeli Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli has said that Israel could face a future conflict with Syria, arguing that tensions with the Syrian government and its regional allies are becoming a growing security concern.

In a series of radio interviews, Chikli described what he called a new “radical Sunni axis” involving Turkey, Qatar, and Pakistan. He claimed this emerging alignment poses a greater long-term challenge to Israel than Iran, despite recent concerns surrounding the US-Iran agreement.

The minister focused particularly on Turkey’s influence in Syria, alleging that Ankara has expanded its role in the country and warning that developments there could threaten Israeli interests. Chikli also criticized Qatar and Pakistan, linking them to broader regional dynamics that he believes are unfavorable to Israel.

His remarks come amid increasing diplomatic tensions between Israel and Turkey, with leaders on both sides exchanging criticism over regional conflicts and security issues.

While warning of possible future confrontation, Chikli said he would prefer to avoid conflict and expressed hope that tensions would not escalate into war.