Leaked files show covert ties between Israel and Syria under Russian mediation
Newly uncovered documents have revealed a covert communication channel between Israeli intelligence and the Syrian regime under Bashar al-Assad.
The files, described as “highly classified,” emerged following the fall of the 61-year-old Baathist regime in Syria and were published by El-Mecelle, a London-based Arabic-language magazine established in 1980 by the Saudi Research and Publishing Company.
The leaked documents detail messages from an Israeli agent, codenamed “Musa,” to Syrian military leaders, which were reportedly passed on to Syria’s National Security Office by the country’s intelligence chief.
A central revelation is the existence of a messaging mechanism facilitated under Russian oversight, linking the Syrian army and Israel.
Israeli warnings and Iran’s influence
The documents shed light on Israel’s monitoring of collaboration between the Syrian army, Hezbollah, and Iran. In stark terms, Israel warned Syria of “unprecedented consequences” if such activities persisted.
While expressing a reluctance to escalate against Syria, Israeli officials reportedly conveyed their determination to counter the transfer of weapons to Hezbollah and Iranian forces. The documents allege that Israel’s strikes in 2022 on targets associated with Iran and Hezbollah—including munitions depots, military bases, and air defense systems—were part of efforts to curb these activities.
One document dated June 9, 2022, highlights Israeli concerns about eight Iranian planes landing at Humeymim Air Base within two weeks, some linked to arms transfers involving the Syrian military and Iranian forces. Another report, dated June 11, 2022, accuses Syrian air defense units of aiding Hezbollah in air defense operations, drawing strong warnings from Israel about potential retaliatory actions.
Assad’s contradictory position
The revelations cast a shadow on Assad’s longstanding image as an anti-Israel “resistance leader.” The documents suggest that despite public rhetoric, the regime engaged in covert cooperation with Israel, particularly regarding shared concerns over Iran’s growing influence in Syria.
The documents also mention the involvement of Hamas operatives, allegedly coordinating activities on Syrian soil under figures like Khaled Mashal and Saleh al-Arouri. Israel warned Syria against tolerating these groups, threatening harsher measures if such operations were not halted.