Israel: We will react ‘loud and clear’ to Iran’s presence in Syria

Israeli Intelligence and Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz yesterday warned that Tel Aviv would not permit Iranian forces to reinforce their military existence in Syria, Quds Press reported.

Speaking to Israeli public radio following the signing of an Iranian-Syrian defence agreement, Katz said: “The accord concluded by Bashar Al-Assad and Iran constitutes a test for Israel. Our response will be loud and clear.”

He added: “We will not allow Iran to establish itself militarily in Syria,” stressing that Israel would “react in Syria with all our might against any Iranian target that threatens Israel.”

If the Syrian army defended Iran when the Israeli army attacks Katz warned “it will pay the price”.

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Early this week, Iran’s Defence Minister Amir Hatami signed an agreement with the Assad regime, expanding cooperation between Damascus and Tehran.

During his visit to Damascus, Hatami rejected calls by the US and Israel that Iran withdraw from Syria. “No third party can influence the presence of Iranian advisers in Syria,” Hatami told reporters in Damascus.