Benjamin Netanyahu Vows Israel Will Defend Itself Against Syrian Attack
Not Our Fight: Benjamin Netanyahu insists Israel has no role in Syria?s civil war, but he vowed to defend the Jewish state against any possible attack. Image by getty images
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday that Israel was not involved in Syria’s civil war, but would respond forcefully to any attempts to attack it.
“The state of Israel is prepared for any scenario,” Netanyahu said in a statement after holding security consultations in Tel Aviv.
“We are not a party to this civil war in Syria but if we identify any attempt to attack us we will respond and we will respond forcefully.”
Many in Israel worry that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, embroiled in a 2-1/2 year uprising against his rule, could strike out at the Jewish state in retaliation to any Western attack.
Syria’s ally Iran warned on Tuesday against foreign military intervention in Syria, saying the resulting conflict would engulf the region.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
