US officials: Netanyahu risks self-destruction if attacks on Syria continue

Two US officials have warned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could self-destruct and turn the Damascus government into an “enemy” if attacks on Syrian territory continue.

Speaking to the American news site Axios, the officials said the Trump administration is concerned that Israeli strikes could destabilise Syria and undermining hopes of an Israel-Syria security agreement.

The officials, whose names were not disclosed, said their concern grew after a phone call between Trump and Netanyahu on Monday.

On the same day, Israel carried out three incursions in the Quneitra countryside in southern Syria, the last following statements by Trump aimed at easing tensions between the two sides.

The officials added that the White House was not informed in advance of the attack on Syria, and Israel did not issue a warning to Damascus through military channels as it had done previously.

They confirmed that the US administration has spoken to Netanyahu, urging him to halt the attacks.

They said: “We are trying to tell Bibi he has to stop this because if it continues he will self-destruct — miss a huge diplomatic opportunity and turn the new Syrian government to an enemy,” referring to Netanyahu by his nickname

On Monday, Trump called on Israel to maintain a “strong and genuine dialogue” with Damascus and ensure nothing happens that could hinder Syria’s development into a prosperous state.