Netanyahu Links Stance on Ahmad al-Shara to Developments in Syria, Emphasizes Israel's Military Independence

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Thursday that his primary concern regarding Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara is the current situation in Syria and whether the country can attain peace.

He added that what matters more to him is al-Shara's willingness to collaborate on establishing a demilitarized zone in southwestern Syria, referring to areas near the Golan Heights.

Netanyahu also pointed out that the military aid Israel receives from the United States is "very limited" compared to what Washington has spent in Afghanistan and the Middle East.

He emphasized that Israel does not ask others to fight for it, highlighting that it is the only U.S. ally that states: "We do not need your troops on the ground."

These comments reflect Israel's desire to maintain its military decision-making autonomy while also showing a direct interest in the future of southern Syria, particularly in light of political changes in Damascus following Ahmad al-Shara's rise to power.